Two People Smugglers Snagged in Major UK-French-Belgian Crackdown
Kaiwan Poore, 37, an Iranian-born British citizen, was handed over to French authorities today. He was arrested earlier this month at Manchester Airport while trying to board a flight to Turkey.
French prosecutors accuse Poore of being part of a ruthless organised crime gang smuggling people across Europe. Following his extradition, he will be held in custody in Lille and formally charged.
Another Suspect Extradited to Belgium
Just yesterday, 29-year-old Hewa Rahimpur—also originally from Iran—was extradited to Belgium after consenting at Westminster Magistrates Court. Rahimpur was arrested by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in East London in May.
Belgian prosecutors say Rahimpur is a key player in a criminal organisation ferrying thousands of migrants in flimsy dinghies from northern France.
Massive International Operation Targets People Smugglers
The NCA, working with law enforcement across France, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, has launched a sweeping investigation into small boat smuggling gangs. On July 5, coordinated raids across Europe saw around 40 arrests, dozens of boats and engines seized, plus 900 lifejackets confiscated—most linked to dangerous Channel crossings.
Two suspects caught facilitating illegal immigration to the UK have been released on bail as inquiries continue.
“The arrests of these two individuals were crucial to a major international investigation focusing on one of the most prolific crime groups thought to be involved in small boat crossings,” said NCA Deputy Director of Investigations Jacque Beer.
“Where we discover these gangs have a UK presence, we are determined to use every tool at our disposal to track them down and bring them to justice. People smugglers risk lives by putting people into these flimsy boats – this is why tackling them remains a priority for the NCA and our European partners.”
The investigation is being conducted in close partnership with Europol and Eurojust, targeting those who profit from perilous Channel crossings.
