Three smugglers charging a whopping £11,000 to bring migrants into the UK have been locked up following a Metropolitan Police crackdown.
‘Migrant Taxi’ Raided at M25 Service Stations
The Met swooped after tips revealed service stations around the M25 were being used as transfer points for migrants hidden in HGVs. CCTV showed migrants hurriedly moving between vehicles before being driven into London.
Albanian Gang Exploited Dozens in 18 Months
Detectives uncovered the racket moved at least 20 Albanian nationals into London — but believe the true number is far higher. The gang worked for a year and a half, making huge sums from desperate people trying to reach the UK.
Phones, Surveillance and CCTV Seal Their Fate
Officers tracked vehicles, pored over CCTV footage, and used surveillance to pinpoint the ringleaders. Phone analysis exposed the smugglers’ chats with HGV drivers coordinating transfers.
Acting Detective Inspector Stuart Jack said:
“The team worked tirelessly to put these three criminals behind bars, where they can no longer exploit vulnerable people. This was all about one thing: illegal profits.
“People smuggled into the UK often face further exploitation and forced labour by criminal gangs once here. This drives even more crime in London and beyond.
“I urge HGV drivers and the public to stay alert and report anything suspicious. This is far from a victimless crime.”
Three Smugglers Sentenced at Southwark Crown Court
- Toni Liko, 42, of Wembley – five years and eight months
- Klement Gjika, 44, of Islington – five years and eight months
- Stelian Bodnariu, 37, of Edgware – three years and four months
The trio were arrested in June 2025 and convicted after a seven-week trial at Southwark Crown Court in February.
Speak Up to Halt People Smuggling
If you have any info on human trafficking or organised immigration crime, call police on 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or dial 999 in an emergency.
