A former British soldier turned people smuggler spilled the beans to the BBC about his exploits ferrying Vietnamese migrants on yachts into private marinas in seaside towns across south-east England. Despite his conviction and imprisonment in 2019, it seems that smugglers are still utilizing similar routes and methods, causing concern for Border Force officials. Private marinas, lacking in security according to a harbourmaster on the Essex coast, are seen as easy targets for such illicit activities.
The ex-soldier, known only as Nick, revealed how he also transported Albanian migrants in cars onto ferries, where they would then jump into lorries mid-journey in the English Channel. Nick described the smuggling routes as “easy” and “low risk”, claiming that others have continued to use them even after his incarceration. He expressed frustration at being jailed for a crime that still seemed very much feasible to commit, calling into question the effectiveness of the authorities in preventing such activities.
Nick’s story sheds light on the dark world of international people smuggling, with his involvement highlighting the vulnerabilities in UK’s coastal security. Border Force, responsible for safeguarding the UK coastline, faces challenges in monitoring private harbours and marinas, where smuggling operations can easily go unnoticed. Despite proactive and reactive operations, instances like a luxury yacht carrying 20 Albanians intercepted en route to Cornwall underscore the ongoing threats posed by people smugglers.
