By Tony O’Reilly-
The National Crime Agency (NCA) makes a significant arrest in Portsmouth, Hampshire. A 45-year-old man, believed to be a key figure in a Kurdish organized crime group, has been apprehended on suspicion of smuggling hundreds of people into the UK.
The arrest comes as a culmination of a two-year investigation into the suspected illegal immigration and money laundering activities.
The suspect, believed to be the linchpin of a transnational criminal network, was detained in the Kingston area of Portsmouth. The arrest underscores the NCA’s commitment to tackling organized immigration crime and dismantling criminal networks involved in human trafficking.
According to NCA investigators, the suspected crime group may have facilitated the illegal entry of hundreds of individuals into the UK, charging exorbitant fees for their services.
The arrest marks a crucial breakthrough in a lengthy investigation characterized by its complexity and scope. Authorities believe that the methods employed by the crime group posed serious risks to the safety and well-being of those being smuggled, highlighting the severity of the issue.
NCA senior investigating officer Rachel Bramley said the arrest marked a “significant point” in a two-year ongoing investigation.
She added: “It is our belief that this crime group were involved in people smuggling activities using a range of methods, all of which were dangerous and potentially life-threatening for those being smuggled.”
“Tackling organised immigration crime remains a priority for the NCA, and our investigation into this network continues.”
Image: PA