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]
