Three Arrested in Dramatic People-Smuggling Bust Off Devon Coast
Three suspects have been nabbed for people smuggling after a dramatic yacht grounding off Teignmouth, Devon. Eight migrants were rescued safe and sound in the daring operation on Monday, December 14.
Yacht Runs Aground, Leading to Rapid Police Action
The 27-foot yacht ran aground at Horse Cove, Teignmouth, around 4.10pm. A Devon-based man and woman were arrested at the scene on suspicion of people smuggling. Later that evening, another man was taken into custody at his Essex home.
The migrants – seven men and one woman, aged between 20 and 40 – are now being cared for at a secure centre run by Devon and Cornwall Police. Their nationalities haven’t been confirmed yet.
The yacht was hauled into Teignmouth Harbour the following morning as the investigation kicks off.
Law Enforcement Unites to Tackle Organised Crime
“People are just another money making commodity to organised criminals,” said Det Supt Tina Robinson, Head of SW ROCU. “But this operation shows how determined we are to stop exploitation and protect our borders.”
The south west’s biggest law enforcement bodies backed the probe. This included the Border Force, National Crime Agency, Immigration Enforcement, and Devon and Cornwall Police.
Chief Superintendent Nikki Leaper confirmed: “Two passengers were taken to Torbay Hospital as a precaution. All eight are now safe, fed, and supported overnight with help from local councils, the British Red Cross, and the NHS.”
She added, “The individuals are assisting with our enquiries. Huge thanks to all responders including the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Teignmouth Harbourmaster, and the National Police Air Service.”
Border Force Praises Seamless Teamwork
Steve Whitton, Head of Border Force Maritime Command, said: “Our cutters tracked the yacht approaching the UK, ensuring officers could act quickly to make arrests. This is a prime example of UK law enforcement uniting to smash organised immigration crime.”
Karen Parsons from the NCA summed it up: “People smugglers exploit vulnerable migrants for profit. Tackling these criminal networks remains a top priority.”
Currently, the Devon man and woman remain in custody, while the Essex man was released under investigation.
