Smokers warned about dodgy cigarettes

Smokers across the Midlands are being warned that they may be inhaling more than they bargained for if they buy dodgy cigarettes.

The Department of Health, with support from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has launched a hard-hitting poster and radio advertising campaign highlighting some of the unpleasant ingredients that could be found in illicit tobacco products.

While the packaging looks almost identical to normal cigarettes, the contents are anything but, with research showing animal droppings, floor-sweepings, insects and even human waste all having been detected.

The poster campaign, which will be appearing in sites across the Midlands, show a man and woman smoking, but coming out of their mouth are examples of all the disgusting tasting things that go in to the dodgy cigs.

Paul Hooper,Regional Tobacco Policy Manager for the Department of Health West Midlands, said: "First and foremost, smoking tobacco of any kind is harmful to health. The NHS helps thousands of people quit smoking each year and when questioned some say they smoke dodgy cigarettes or tobacco that may have been smuggled into the country perhaps sold by 'a man down the pub' or in their workplace.

"They often say these cigarettes taste different, but it never occurs to them why. They often don't realise just how unhygienic the conditions are in which they are made.

"Of course shop-bought tobacco is not a healthier option. It is better that people explore the help available to stop smoking altogether and save money that way, rather than seek out apparently cheaper alternatives.

"They might be cheap but they are a rip off."

Selling dodgy cigarettes is also illegal and anyone caught dealing in their place of work could find themselves facing disciplinary action or even the sack, with the company also facing punishment.

Keith Morgan, Detection Manager for HMRC said: "This is not an innocent or victimless crime but one that encourages otherwise honest people to trade with criminals. The illicit trade has a devastating impact on legitimate traders who have to compete against these cheap and unregulated goods.

"The gangs behind this form of criminality reap huge profits from cigarette sales which are ploughed straight back into the criminal underworld, feeding activities like drug dealing and fraud

He added: "We are keen to work closely with local people and communities in the fight against this type of crime. We would encourage anyone who knows of someone selling cheap or duty free cigarettes and tobacco from their house or place of work to contact the Customs hotline. "

For more information about illicit tobacco products and how they affect you and your business visit the website at dodgycigs.co.uk.