Two men have been snapped up by the National Crime Agency (NCA) following dawn raids across Kent and the East Midlands. The swoops are part of a sweeping investigation into a suspected people smuggling ring bringing migrants into the UK by boat.
Raids Target Car Washes, Barber Shops, and Homes
The pair were hauled in on suspicion of money laundering in Folkestone and Nottingham this morning. Police hit two car washes and a barber shop in Nottingham, plus a residential property in Derby. The operations were backed by Nottinghamshire Police, Derbyshire Constabulary, and Immigration Enforcement, all co-ordinated through the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU).
Criminal Network Exploits Migrants for Labour
Authorities say the criminal gang targeted by the NCA is believed to smuggle migrants into Britain illegally before exploiting them by employing them in local businesses across the East Midlands.
“Tackling the organised criminals behind people smuggling remains a key priority for the NCA,” said an agency spokesperson. This is just one of around 100 active investigations targeting illegal human trafficking and associated crimes.” The investigation underscores the ongoing battle against people smuggling networks profiting from vulnerable migrants, highlighting law enforcement’s commitment to cut off their filthy cash flow.
