The National Crime Agency (NCA) has concluded its investigation into a major people smuggling network, with the final three members sentenced today. In total, 21 gang members have been convicted, resulting in combined jail terms exceeding 84 years.
Ringleader and drivers sentenced
Shuhal Ahmed, 44, a ringleader of the East London-based gang, appeared before Canterbury Crown Court today. He charged migrants around £1,400 each to help them evade border and immigration checks and enter France illegally. Ahmed admitted people smuggling offences and received an eight-and-a-half year sentence.
Robiul Islam, 50, a minicab driver who transported migrants from London to Kent for Channel crossings, was jailed for five years. Islam also helped organise other drivers to do the same. Qasim Jan, 55, another minicab driver involved in transporting migrants, was sentenced to four years in prison.
Investigation details
The NCA evidenced 10 different runs intercepted between July 2025 and January 2026. Most of the people being transported were in the UK legally at the time but were attempting to avoid restrictions on entering the EU.
The final sentencing hearing follows the convictions of five other men who were all found guilty of facilitating illegal immigration following a three-week trial at Canterbury Crown Court, concluding on Thursday 22 October. They were handed jail terms of between seven and four years.
Broader network convictions
Previously convicted gang members include lorry and van drivers from Romania and North Macedonia, who were jailed for their roles in smuggling migrants into France. Sentences ranged from two years and six months to six years for a facilitator.
NCA Senior Investigating Officer John Turner said: “Today’s sentencing marks the end of a significant investigation undertaken by the NCA into a major people smuggling network threatening the border security of both the UK and France.”
He added: “I hope it sends out a warning to those who would consider getting involved, and think there is money to be made from smuggling people in either direction across the Channel. The chances of getting caught have never been higher, it simply isn’t worth it.”
