Consumer warning over smuggled cigarettes

Retailers are warning consumers about the danger of buying smuggled cigarettes.

They say illegal cigarettes contain rat droppings, arsenic and fibreglass and pose an even bigger risk to your health than normal cigarettes.

'Retailers Against Smugglers' also say the criminals involved have undertaken a leaflet campaign offering the contraband goods for as little as €3.50 for a box of 20 cigarettes.

This compares with €9.20 in the shops.

Spokesperson for RAS is retailer Benny Gilsenan.

He says the smugglers are active around the country.

"It started first in Sligo and it has come all the way across the country from Sligo through Athlone, Mullingar, and the latest ones that was found was in Athboy in Co. Meath," he said.

"It proves that these people are moving right across the entire country with these cigarettes."