Waste disposal companies fined

The largest investigation into the illegal dumping of toxic waste has seen a string of disposal companies issued with huge fines.

Indeed, the disposal companies have been illegally exporting dumped electronics to the developing world.

Eight men have been caught sending tonnes of waste computers and other consumer durables to west Africa and Asia.

When in these developing countries, the toxic technology is stripped for valuable metal, often by children.

The waste from technological equipment is some of the most harmful around, meaning that these companies have been putting the children at serious risk for a number of years.

This cruel trade has been going on for years it has emerged, and confirms the fears of specialists.

Andy Higham, head of the agency’s national crime team, said: "This confirms the legal position on exporting electronic waste to developing countries. Sending hazardous waste to developing countries is unacceptable and our teams will continue to track down and stop those who risk damaging human health and the environment."

The fines are over £200,000.

The investigation centred on a shipping agent, Orient Exports, based in Thurrock, Essex.

It was found to have copious amounts of hazardous electrical waste destined for Nigeria.

Thankfully, the criminals were caught before the electric waste reached Nigeria.

After they were found, the waste was linked back to ten firms posing as lawful waste companies.

The reality, of course, was somewhat different.

The firms operated across the country, from Sussex and Norfolk, to Birmingham, Leicester, Leeds and the North West.

Krassimir Vangelov, of KSV in Sussex was fined £112,000. Michael Aulakh Singh, of Thorn International in Birmingham, was fined £25,715 and Adrian Thompson, of Ady's Skips in Tudenham was fined £4,415.