Dover Smash: People Smugglers Caught Red-Handed in High-Stakes Sting
Marius Bajenaru, 44, and Sorin-Costinel Ivan, 46, were arrested at Dover port on 18 September 2025 during a dramatic National Crime Agency (NCA) raid. Dover, one of the UK’s busiest ports, turned into a crackdown zone as desperate migrants were found crammed into vehicles.
Shock Hauls: Vans and Lorries Packed with Migrants
- Bajenaru was caught with 17 migrants squeezed into his Romanian-registered panel van. Officers also found nearly £4,000 cash hidden in his cab.
- Ivan’s HGV trailer was stuffed with 32 mostly Bangladeshi migrants. Nearly £10,000 in cash was seized from his lorry cab.
Courts Slam Jail Doors Shut on People Smugglers
Bajenaru admitted he picked up migrants from a layby on the A20 near Ashford, pocketing around £200 per person. Ivan first denied involvement but later pled guilty to aiding illegal immigration.
At Canterbury Crown Court on 25 November 2025, both men were locked up:
- Sorin-Costinel Ivan: 3 years 4 months in prison
- Marius Bajenaru: 2 years 8 months behind bars
NCA Issues Stark Warning to Hauliers: Don’t Get Caught Out
Senior Investigating Officer John Turner said: “People smuggling gangs lure drivers with promises of easy money. It’s a deadly trap with life-changing consequences. These criminals treat people like cargo with zero regard for their lives. We’re working round the clock to smash these rings.”
Spot Smuggling? Speak Up Now
The NCA, Border Force, and Crimestoppers are urging haulage workers to stay alert to signs of migrant smuggling. Your tip-off could save lives.
Report suspicious activity anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. In emergencies, always dial 999.
Report date: 27 November 2025
Follow the Action: NCA Updates on Twitter
Keep tabs on the latest people smuggling crackdowns via the NCA’s official Twitter feed.
