From: Derby Telegraph
PARASITES, insect eggs, excrement and fungi have been found in seized counterfeit cigarettes, according to European crime-fighting agency Europol.
They also contain higher levels of tar and nicotine than genuine tobacco products.
In addition, illegally high concentrations of deadly carcinogens such as arsenic, cadmium, benzene and formaldehyde may also find their way into tobacco products which are produced illicitly.
Europol has found that in order to maximise profits, illegal tobacco is produced with cheap equipment and materials and with scant regard for the consumers or quality controls.
Set up to fight organised crime networks, the illicit trade in cigarettes and tobacco is high on Europol’s agenda.
Counterfeit and smuggled products are sold to consumers who are unaware that they are buying products produced and sold illegally.
Europol has found that the money these products generate goes directly to criminal groups, funding other areas of serious organised crime and terrorism.
The United Nations Security Council’s investigative body has found that millions of pounds in illicit tobacco revenues are reaching al-Qaeda, the Taliban and other terrorist organisations around the world.
It also established that funds generated through illegal tobacco sales have helped to finance Congolese rebels who recruit child soldiers and have been responsible for atrocities in the African state.
