Tobacco firm made dubious payments in Africa

LONDON: Tobacco giant British American Tobacco (BAT) allegedly made hundreds of "questionable payments" in 10 African countries over five years to influence health policies and sabotage competitors, a watchdog claimed on Tuesday.

The London-headquartered multinational allegedly doled out more than $600,000 (508,000 euros) in cash, cars, per diems and campaign donations to dozens of politicians, lawmakers, civil servants, journalists and staff at rival companies between 2008 and 2013.