Kiosk owners complain of 'abusive searches' by customs agents

ALGECIRAS (Agencies/Photo: illustration only) The local kiosk owners association recently complained publicly that they were being subjected to searches by Customs agents looking for contraband tobacco. This, they say, is in direct contravention of the law as the searches are being carried out without either executive or judicial orders. The collective says that the inspectors do not leave proof of their having been there, nor do they have witnesses or notaries to prove their case in court, if that becomes necessary. These inspections are made exclusively at the various kiosks in the area, giving the impression that the inspectors are 'looking for drugs'. The method is that an inspector turns up, dressed like an ordinary citizen, asking for a packet of contraband cigarrettes. If the owner accedes to the question, a thorough inspection of the premises follows immediately, with confiscation of all contraband included. (Prospero note: Are we entirely surprised? In my experience, every kiosk in the Campo sells contraband tobacco.)