In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into people smuggling across the English Channel, a second man has been arrested by the National Crime Agency (NCA). The 56-year-old individual was apprehended at his residence in Harrow, located in northwest London, on the morning of October 10.
The arrest is in connection with an incident that took place in June 2022, where a pleasure boat was allegedly used to transport at least ten migrants from Normandy to the UK. Witnesses reported seeing individuals disembarking from the boat at Slapton Sands in Devon and quickly fleeing to waiting vehicles.
Investigators suspect that the detained man played a key role as one of the organizers of the illicit crossing event. He has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to facilitate illegal migration into the United Kingdom and is currently being held in custody for questioning by NCA officers.
This arrest follows the earlier apprehension of 58-year-old Tony Williams from Lydford, Devon, in December 2022. Williams has since been charged in relation to the same incident and is scheduled to appear at Exeter Crown Court on October 30.
Andy Macgill, a representative from the NCA, emphasised the agency’s commitment to targeting and disrupting organised crime groups involved in people smuggling throughout the entire smuggling route, regardless of the methods employed. The NCA continues to work diligently to address this issue and bring those responsible to justice.
The investigation into this particular people smuggling operation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in combating illegal migration. By apprehending individuals involved in these activities, law enforcement agencies aim to dismantle criminal networks and prevent further exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking a better life.
