Convicted People Smuggler Found Living in UK
Convicted people smuggler Twana Jamal, previously referred to as "the godfather" of the French migrant camps, is currently living and working in Leicestershire and is believed to be seeking asylum, according to a BBC investigation.
Jamal received a five-year prison sentence in France in 2016. After receiving a tip-off earlier this year, the BBC located Jamal in Blaby, Leicestershire, where he was observed working illegally, driving a car without a licence, and apparently using a false identity.
Concerns Over Other Convicted Smugglers in the UK
Law enforcement officials in mainland Europe have informed the BBC that 15 other convicted people smugglers are reportedly residing in the UK under false names. This situation raises significant concerns regarding the effectiveness of current border controls in verifying the identities of asylum seekers who have committed serious crimes abroad.
Home Office Response
The Home Office responded to the BBC's findings, stating:
"All asylum claimants are subject to mandatory security checks to confirm their identity for the purpose of immigration, security and criminality checks."
"The UK has a number of agreements with countries which enable the sharing of criminal record information."
"Immigration enforcement action is currently at its highest level in history."
Further Information
The full story can be accessed by searching for 'To Catch a King' on .
