An “evil” people smuggler who left migrants screaming and gasping for air after cramming them into a tiny concealed space in his van has been jailed.
Staff at Newhaven Ferry Port discovered seven terrified people stuffed into the two-metre compartment of Anas Al Mustafa’s vehicle earlier this year.
The group were standing in the miniscule gap and shouting for help because they had no access to clean air, food or water for hours, the Home Office said.
One of the victims had a stroke and has since developed a long-term memory issue as a result of the conditions and one woman suffered from acute kidney injuries, Lewes Crown Court heard.
The other five people required urgent hospital treatment for heat exhaustion and dehydration after making the trip on a ferry from Dieppe, France to the UK hidden behind a fitted panel in the rear of the van.
Father-of-two Al Mustafa was found guilty of facilitating a breach of UK immigration law last month. On Friday the 43-year-old was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, said: “This evil criminal put seven people’s lives at risk for cash, it is a miracle they are still alive after the conditions they were put in at the hands of Mr Mustafa.
“We cannot let these criminal gangs continue to put lives on the line, which is why we are taking decisive action against those who undermine our border security.
“Our new Border Security Command brings together hundreds of specialist investigators who are dedicated to tackling the criminal gangs upstream before they get a chance to operate in the UK.”
Home Office Criminal and Financial Investigations regional lead, Chris Foster, added: “Today’s sentence is a clear message to the careless people smugglers who put profit over lives, we will continue to tirelessly pursue you and bring justice to those you exploit.
“The victims are extremely lucky to be alive. This harrowing case shows the extraordinary lengths criminals go to to keep their business model going.
“My team are committed to staying one step ahead to make sure we stop them and protect lives.”
