A man has been arrested in Birmingham on suspicion of using social media to advertise people smuggling services. The operation, targeting an organised crime network, was carried out by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and West Midlands Police.
Dawn Raid in Handsworth
Officers descended on an address in the Holyhead Road area of Handsworth on the morning of Monday, December 22. They detained a 29-year-old Indian national as part of an ongoing investigation into a network suspected of moving people illegally in the backs of lorries.
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of facilitating illegal immigration. He was taken into custody for questioning by investigators from both the NCA and West Midlands Police. A number of electronic devices were also seized from the property and are now being examined by forensic experts.
Second Man Found at Scene
During the operation, a second male was also arrested at the address for being in the United Kingdom illegally. He was not held by police but was instead handed directly to the immigration authorities for processing and potential removal from the country.
NCA Vows to Dismantle Crime Networks
NCA branch commander Kevin Broadhead stated that tackling organised immigration crime remains a top priority for the agency. He emphasised their determination to target and disrupt the networks involved.
"Our investigation, which is being conducted alongside partners from West Midlands Police, continues following this arrest," Commander Broadhead said. The joint operation highlights the coordinated approach being taken to combat sophisticated people smuggling operations that often exploit vulnerable individuals.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about similar activities to come forward.
