A suspected people smuggling kingpin has been hauled in by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and West Midlands Police in a major crackdown in Birmingham.
Kingpin Zahid Khan Nabbed in Birmingham
On Tuesday, 10 February, 51-year-old Zahid Khan was arrested at a property on Sheldon Heath Road. After intense questioning by NCA investigators, Khan was charged with facilitating illegal immigration and money laundering.
He is set to appear before Birmingham Magistrates today, 12 February.
Second Suspect Also Arrested but Held for Other Crimes
A 44-year-old man was also arrested at the same address, suspected of aiding illegal immigration. While he has been bailed on that charge pending more enquiries, he remains locked up for failing to appear in court on unrelated offences.
33 Migrants Found in Lorry Bound for France
This major bust follows the seizure of a lorry carrying 33 migrants from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The vehicle was stopped by the NCA at Dover on 4 February, moments before it was due to board a ferry to France. The driver was immediately arrested.
National Crime Agency spokesperson: “A suspected people smuggling boss has been arrested in Birmingham as part of a joint investigation.”
