People Smuggling Money Launderer Jailed for Eight Years
Asghar Gheshalghian, 48, has been locked up for eight years after the National Crime Agency (NCA) uncovered his role in laundering cash for people smuggling gangs running dangerous small boat crossings. Operating from an office block in Wood Green, Gheshalghian ran an unregistered money services business, acting as a trusted middleman using the hawala system.
£1.6 Million Laundered Through Hawala Network
Gheshalghian handled payments from 123 laundering operations, with phone records linking him to at least eight Iranian smuggling gangs. These criminal groups trusted him to move their dirty money.
After his arrest, the NCA seized around £50,000 in cash from his premises, storage units, and home. Investigators uncovered ledgers detailing transactions and traced £1.6 million funnelled into his bank accounts.
Undercover ITV Evidence Helps Secure Conviction
Evidence from an ITV documentary featured undercover reporters speaking with a people smuggler in northern France. The smuggler mentioned a broker known as “Mr G” — identified as Gheshalghian — confirming his central role.
Authorities Vow to Crush People Smuggling Networks
The two-week trial, supported by HM Revenue & Customs and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), highlighted the serious threat posed by unregulated money services aiding criminals.
“Gheshalghian knowingly operated an unregulated business to help criminal gangs smuggle people illegally into the UK,” said Michael Oatley, Unit Head at the CPS.
The CPS and law enforcement agencies promise to keep targeting those who facilitate illegal immigration and tear down these dangerous networks.
