An alleged crime syndicate ringleader has been charged with smuggling a massive quantity of illicit tobacco into Australia, hidden inside kitchen items and clothing.

The arrest by a joint task force comes as Victoria Police combats "unspeakable violence" in the community connected to the illicit tobacco trade, including hundreds of arson and extortion offences.

A 49-year-old man from the Melbourne suburb of North Coburg was arrested on September 9 for allegedly masterminding the importation of more than seven tonnes of loose-leaf tobacco over a 10-month period.

Police also alleged he was responsible for importing around five million cigarettes and more than 5000 vapes to Victoria, concealed in air and sea cargo.

By concealing the tobacco products, the man dodged an estimated $36.3

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