Romanian Driver Nabbed with 17 Migrants Crammed in Trailer at M20
Alexandru Fuiorea, 30, from Twyford Drive, was arrested by the National Crime Agency (NCA) at the M20 Medway Services on 4 October 2020. Officers found a shocking 17 migrants hidden in his trailer during a vehicle search.
Mixed Nationalities Found in Empty Trailer
The migrants, a mix of Tunisian, Moroccan, Bangladeshi, Afghan, Indian, and Pakistani nationals, were discovered packed in a trailer that was otherwise empty. They were handed over to immigration authorities immediately.
Police also found a small stash of cannabis in Fuiorea’s cab.
Long Jail Term for People Smuggler
Fuiorea was charged with facilitating illegal immigration and possession of a controlled drug. He admitted guilt at Maidstone Crown Court on 18 December and was sentenced today (30 April) to three years and eight months for smuggling and an extra month for drug possession — to be served concurrently.
NCA branch commander Andy Noyes said: “The organised criminals behind people smuggling move migrants across borders in both directions. This threatens the security of both the UK and France, while putting lives at risk.
“Enablers like Alexandru Fuiorea make these dangerous trips possible, in exchange for a fee.
“The sentence handed to him should serve as a warning to anyone thinking of getting involved in such criminality. The NCA and our law enforcement partners are determined to catch you and bring you before the courts.”
