Police Crack Down on Organised Immigration Crime at Fleet Services
Organised immigration crime covers both illegal entry and human trafficking. Migrants commonly sneak into the UK hidden in lorries, ferry vehicles, shipping containers, or small boats. Hard-sided lorries are a favoured choice for gangs, while opportunistic smugglers use soft-sided ones. These risky methods put lives in grave danger.
Major Operation Targets Hauliers on Good Friday
Hampshire police teamed up with Border Force and Immigration Enforcement for a major crackdown at Fleet Services on Good Friday. Officers from multiple units, including the Roads Policing Unit and Neighbourhood Teams, stopped and searched 35 heavy goods vehicles. The aim? To boost security and smash smuggling rings.
Hauliers Cough Up Thousands in Outstanding Fines
The joint teams set up 10 inspection bays across the lorry park to question drivers and help Border Force collect unpaid fines. These penalties hit haulier companies caught ferrying migrants. On April 2 alone, £2,700 was recovered in outstanding fines.
Fortunately, no stowaways were found in any of the 35 lorries searched.
Warning Over Smuggling and Life-Threatening Dangers
“Criminals are making cash by illegally smuggling desperate and vulnerable people into the UK through dangerous methods,” said Detective Chief Inspector Ross Toms, Hampshire’s lead on Modern Slavery and Organised Immigration Crime. “We are doing all we can to tackle the issue together with Border Force and Immigration Enforcement.”
“Those caught smuggling people in lorries face serious penalties. They could be arrested, and their employers could face hefty fines for failing to secure their vehicles properly.”
“If anyone suspects people are trapped inside a lorry or vehicle, they must call 999 immediately. Every life is precious and could be at risk.”
