Swansea Van Driver Jailed for Smuggling Migrants in Hidden Compartment
A Swansea van driver, Anas Al Mustafa, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for assisting in unlawful migration by smuggling migrants in a specially-adapted van. The migrants were discovered screaming for help as they were being starved of oxygen in a hidden compartment. The incident took place on February 16 when Al Mustafa trafficked seven individuals via a ferry between Dieppe in France and Newhaven, East Sussex.
During the trial at Lewes Crown Court, it was revealed that the six men and one woman were enduring dehydration and starvation in the concealed space, which was only “the width of a human chest.” The hidden compartment, measuring two meters wide and 194cm tall, forced the migrants to stand and restricted their movement significantly. They were not provided with water during the transit.
The discovery at the East Sussex port prompted an immediate response from emergency services, including ambulances, police, and Border Force. Crew members aboard the Seven Sisters ship heard cries for help from inside the van on the deck and used an axe to break down the fake partition, freeing the distressed migrants.
Prosecutor Nick Corsellis KC highlighted the dire conditions the migrants faced, with some experiencing medical emergencies such as a possible heart attack, acute kidney injury, and even a stroke.
Australian nurse Sari Gehle, who was a passenger on the ferry, described the harrowing scene as she assisted the crew in managing the situation. The migrants, who were Vietnamese, were in a state of distress and required immediate medical attention upon rescue.
During the trial, Al Mustafa denied knowledge of the migrants’ presence in the van, claiming he was shocked by the discovery. He mentioned being introduced to a man named Badr who offered him a job to drive the van. However, prosecutors argued that Al Mustafa’s involvement went beyond that of a mere driver.
In sentencing, Judge Christine Laing KC emphasized the gravity of the offence, stating that it jeopardized the economic and physical safety of the nation. She underscored the importance of safeguarding the country’s borders and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation by human traffickers.
The case sheds light on the dangers faced by migrants seeking entry to the UK and the ruthless tactics employed by those who profit from illegal immigration. The conviction of Anas Al Mustafa sends a strong message against human trafficking and underscores the need for vigilance in combating such criminal activities.