Warning over 'toxic' Cigarettes

Counterfeit Cigarettes which contain tobacco loaded with poisonous chemicals are hitting city streets, BBC Scotland has learned. The authorities claim smokers are tempted by cheaper options as the price of legitimate tobacco rises. Until recently that meant smuggled Cigarettes but now fake Cigarettes are dominating the multi-million pound illegal trade. Police and customs officials are calling for greater public awareness. The fake tobacco is packaged to look like legitimate brands before being smuggled into Scotland and distributed to sMall-time traders to sell on the street. The proceeds from the trade are then ploughed back into other illegal activities like drugs and prostitution. The added danger is that illegal tobacco can contain high levels of dangerous chemicals. The authorities said smokers were able to taste the difference - but by then it was too late.