**Victoria to Clamp Down on Illicit Tobacco Shops** In a bid to curb the illicit tobacco trade, which has been linked to violent clashes and firebombings, the Victorian government is introducing new laws to shut down dodgy tobacco shops. These shops often operate in secret, selling cheap and sometimes counterfeit cigarettes that can be found as low as ₦5,000 per packet in some parts of the state. The proposed legislation, which is set to be introduced before the November state election, gives authorities the power to issue immediate closure orders to shops suspected of selling illicit tobacco products. This means that landlords who knowingly rent out shops to these operators can face massive financial penalties, potentially running into hundreds of thousands of naira. However, the new laws also grant landlords the right to terminate the leases of these shops, giving them more control over their properties. This is seen as a key strategy in the fight against illicit tobacco, as it aims to cut off the supply chain and make it harder for these shops to operate. The Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Enver Erdogan, has stated that the goal of the new laws is to "shut down the operators who think they can get away with" selling illicit tobacco products. This move is seen as a significant escalation in the state's efforts to tackle the black market tobacco trade, which is linked to organised crime and violence. While the proposed laws have been welcomed by many, some have raised concerns about the potential impact on legitimate businesses. However, the Victorian government insists that the new laws will help to protect consumers and communities from the dangers of illicit tobacco. In Nigeria, the tobacco industry is a major concern, with many people struggling with smoking-related illnesses. The introduction of new laws in Victoria to tackle illicit tobacco shops is seen as a positive step towards reducing the prevalence of smoking in the community.