Illegal cigarettes containing dead flies and rat droppings are reportedly being sold over the counter in London – as consumer groups warn that the black market cigarette trade could expand with the introduction of plain packets.

According to The Sun, more than a third of London smokers have purchased illegal tobacco, which can include ingredients such as human excrement, asbestos, dust, mould and rat droppings, from shops across the capital.

Recently released video footage shows undercover shoppers buying the ‘cheap cigarettes’ from over the counter, paying £5.50 for a single packet.

One in eight of the 50 London retailers who were visited by mystery shoppers was found to be selling illegal cigarettes and tobacco.

View photos The plain packets reportedly make it easier to sell fake cigarettes (Picture: ASH) More

The illegal tobacco, which was found in locations including Kilburn, Brick Lane and Maida Vale, has even been linked to organised crime and terrorist funding.

It is thought that the branding ban makes it easier for criminals to produce counterfeit cigarettes.

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Steve Wilkins, the Anti-Illegal Trade Operations Director for Japan International Tobacco said: ‘Smokers buying cheap fake cigarettes and tobacco on the streets of the UK may be getting more than they bargain for as these fake imitations has been found to contain asbestos, mould, dust, dead flies, rat droppings and even human excrement.

‘The availability of cheap illegal tobacco across towns and cities in the UK is damaging local communities and along with retailers, suppliers and the Government we all have a role to play to combat the issue.’

Yahoo News has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment.