People Smuggler Noor Ullah Jailed for Over Two Years
Noor Ullah, 29, from Leytonstone, was arrested in May 2021 during a major National Crime Agency (NCA) crackdown that smashed a notorious people smuggling ring operating in east London.
Key Player in Cross-Channel Smuggling Operation
The NCA named Ullah a pivotal gang member with ties stretching across Europe and Asia. The group used mainly Romanian lorries to ferry migrants across the Channel, shuttling people between France and Kent both ways.
Among those trying to flee the UK via the smuggling network were dangerous criminals, including a man wanted for child abuse and another for murder.
Ullah Pleads Guilty, Sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court
After initially denying charges, Ullah flipped on the first day of his trial, pleading guilty to conspiracy to smuggle people out of the UK. Today, he was locked up for two years and five months at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
“People smugglers like Ullah don’t care about safety or border security,” said Chris Hill, senior NCA investigator. “This gang even helped serious criminals escape Britain.
“They exploited both willing and unwitting lorry drivers, with some trucks being broken into to hide migrants. The crooks aimed to maximize profits by running people both into and out of the UK.”
“We’re determined to target, disrupt and dismantle these criminal gangs involved in organised immigration crime. This investigation is just one example of our commitment.”
Ongoing Crackdown: Another Arrest Linked to Operation Symbolry
The conviction comes after a lengthy probe dubbed Operation Symbolry. Another suspect, Mohammed Mokter Hossain, 52, from Woodford Green, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to move people in and out of the UK. He awaits sentencing following a Newton Hearing in May 2022.
