Authorities warn penalties for cigarette ads

Authorities have said that advertising any tobacco product was illegal, warning that the offense would be met with penalties.

Deputy-Director of Health Protection Agency (HPA), Hassan Mohamed spoke to “Sun” on Tuesday and said that advertising any tobacco product was a clear violation of law, and that the issue of Camel cigarette packs carrying an ad inside had come to their attention.

“It’s a clear violation of law. We have received the news. Penalties will be enforced,” said Hassan.

Hassan said that businesses continued to use different methods to advertised tobacco products despite it being stated as an offense under legislation to control tobacco.

Laws have also been drawn up setting rules for smoking on public property, but aren’t properly enforced.