Number of black market tobacco stores in South Australia revealed

South Australia is home to more than 200 illegal tobacco stores as crime gangs fight for what is becoming a lucrative market.

Police have set up a taskforce to combat the trade and to stop associated crime linked to the activity, as more people turn to the growing Adelaide black market.

"It has created a market for people to purchase very cheap tobacco products and organised crime have seen an opportunity to exploit that market," Police Commissioner Grant Stevens said.

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Operation Eclipse has been launched to investigate serious criminal offences linked to the illegal tobacco trade.

The operation has linked eight local arson attacks, and police have promised swift action to address the crimes linked to the industry. 

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"I would expect more arrests," Stevens said. 

"There is a very strong focus on getting to the bottom of these arson offences and other crimes."

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.