Woman, 49, Arrested Over Money Laundering Linked to People Smuggling Boats
A 49-year-old woman has been arrested in south-east London on suspicion of money laundering tied to supplying small boats to people smuggling gangs.
Suspect Caught at Surrey Quays Home
The woman was detained on 21 August at an address in Surrey Quays. The arrest is part of an ongoing National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation targeting organised crime networks involved in illegal Channel crossings.
Network Smuggling Boats from Turkiye to Europe
The probe focuses on a gang supplying boats and maritime gear imported from Turkiye. These supplies enable criminal groups across Europe to conduct dangerous crossings of the English Channel.
The woman is suspected of handling money believed to come from this illicit boat supply chain.
NCA Vows to Smash People Smuggling Gangs
Lydia Bloomfield, NCA Regional Head of Investigation, said: “Tackling organised immigration crime remains a key priority for the NCA, and we are determined to target, disrupt and dismantle the gangs involved in planning Channel crossings in any way we can. That includes focusing on those involved in supplying boats and equipment to them. Our investigation continues.”
Crackdown on Channel Crossings in Full Swing
The NCA, working with Border Force, French authorities, and Europol, is stepping up efforts against gangs profiting from risky, small boat Channel crossings.
So far this year, dozens of boats and engines have been seized, and numerous suspects arrested for smuggling equipment into the UK.
The woman remains under investigation as the NCA continues to crack down on these dangerous smuggling operations.
