Two Found Guilty in People Smuggling Plot Across English Channel
Stephen Redhead, 47, from Newport, and Christopher Barber, 55, of Shanklin, were today found guilty by a unanimous jury of conspiring to break UK immigration laws. The verdict came after a seven-day trial at Portsmouth Crown Court.
Jean Pierre Labelle, 45, from Ryde, had earlier pleaded guilty to the same offence.
Illegal Migrants Smuggled on Yacht ‘Anore’
Back in March 2020, Labelle, Redhead, and Barber sailed to Cherbourg, France, aboard a 70ft yacht called ‘Anore.’ They returned to East Cowes Marina with 10 suspected illegal migrants on board. CCTV footage showed the group disembarking, sparking a Hampshire Constabulary investigation that was later handed to the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU).
Sadly, the migrants have since vanished and remain untraceable due to the incident being reported late.
Foiled Attempt with Vessel ‘Freedom’
In late June 2020, Labelle tried again with a small boat named ‘Freedom.’ This time, a joint operation by SEROCU, the National Crime Agency, and French authorities intercepted the boat near France. Six Albanian nationals without proper clearance and two criminal associates were caught. The accomplices faced prosecution in France.
SEROCU Vows to Fight People Smugglers
Clair Trueman, Senior SEROCU Investigator, said:
“These convictions follow a thorough probe into people smuggling. We understand the mortal risks migrants face crossing the Channel. Tragically, many die because of these dangerous methods.”
“We will keep fighting those who exploit UK borders and treat people as mere commodities, utterly disregarding their safety.”
Redhead remains in custody while Barber has been released on bail pending sentencing. All three defendants will be sentenced at Isle of Wight Crown Court on 18th March.
