Tracking devices are putting a sting in tails of smugglers

Hidden tracking devices have led to at least six substantial cigarette smuggling stings since the law permitting covert surveillance by customs officers was introduced.

Spying technology has become increasingly important for the Revenue Commissioners. However, the independent overseer of its activity said the expensive practice was predominantly deployed only where high-value crimes were suspected.

Over 35m illegal cigarettes, worth in the region of €13m, were uncovered in the first two years of the new surveillance law.