A "suspicious" fire at a tobacco store in Sanctuary Point has prompted calls for stronger action against the illegal tobacco trade.

Emergency services were called to a shop on Paradise Beach Road about 1am on Tuesday, October 29, after a vehicle crashed into the building and caught fire.

The blaze caused partial structural damage to the shop and a neighbouring business, while the car was destroyed.

A police spokesperson said the driver had left the scene before officers arrived and confirmed the fire was being treated as suspicious. Investigations were ongoing.

Shoalhaven mayor Patricia White expressed disappointment at the incident and concern that a pattern of similar behaviour may be emerging.

"I implore the NSW government to act more swiftly to address the illegal tobacco trade an

See Full Page