NEWS

Trafficking surges in fake Syrian passports, Frontex chief warns

Trafficking surges in fake Syrian passports, Frontex chief warns

The chief of Frontex, the European Union's border agency, says trafficking in fake Syrian passports has increased, notably in Turkey, creating a windfall for criminal gangs and a boon for migrants trying to get into Europe.

Frontext chief Fabrice Leggeri said Tuesday that Syrians fleeing their country's civil war have the right to asylum in EU nations, making a Syrian passport very attractive. He told Frances Europe 1 radio the situation is also "extremely lucrative for criminal organizations."

He said those who purchase a fake Syrian passport are Arabic speaking, making them credible, but usually have a "profile of an economic immigrant" who, under European rules, would not receive asylum. [AP]

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