Afghan criminal Haji Ajmal, a major smuggling kingpin, has openly admitted to using violence and intimidation to control groups of asylum seekers during perilous journeys across Europe. In an interview with the Daily Express, he claimed his work is “enjoyable” because he believes he is helping thousands of people escape war-torn countries and secure new protections in the UK.
Smuggler’s Justification: ‘It’s Enjoyable’
Ajmal stated, “While it’s a very risky job, and we know it’s dangerous, it is enjoyable for us. It’s enjoyable when our clients arrive at their final destination.” He added, “When our clients arrive in the UK, when they start a new life, when they have new protections… it is enjoyable for us. At least we can say that we saved some families from war and put them in a safe zone.”
He insisted that he is helping people, noting that many of his clients come from countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran, and he transports them to safe countries. Ajmal denied actively promoting the UK’s hospitality but acknowledged that migrants who successfully reach Britain spread the word to friends and relatives, encouraging others to follow.
Violence as a Business Tool
Ajmal conceded that his gang, which operates from Turkey to the UK, uses violence to maintain control. “That’s our job, to be a bit aggressive,” he said. “When we take people from one part to another, we are in the front line, so we have to be very careful. When we take a break, we don’t let the people laugh. We might get angry if people break the rules because of the risk to us, because of the security.”
He justified carrying small weapons like knives, explaining that aggression is necessary to ensure everyone follows orders and to avoid detection by police. “If there is a small mistake, the entire mission could have to be cancelled. We might be caught by the police,” he said.
Informants Inside British Government
Earlier, Ajmal sparked alarm by claiming he has informants within the British state who tip him off about law enforcement operations. He told the Sunday Express, “There are people in the border areas, border police, they have some kind of cooperation with us. There are some people who are taking money. They are helping us.” He added that these contacts provide reports on checkpoints and police searches.
When asked if threats of a crackdown by the National Crime Agency and European allies would deter him, Ajmal responded, “Demand is too high. There are a lot of people who are asking us to go to Europe. When demand is high, of course, we will take the risk.” He noted that many Afghans want to come to the UK due to rumours of “very good hospitality,” including hotels, and encouragement from families already there.
Impact and Response
Ajmal’s revelations highlight the ongoing challenges in combating migrant smuggling networks. The Home Office has not commented directly on his claims, but the National Crime Agency continues to work with European partners to disrupt such operations. The smuggler acknowledged that the greatest risk falls on the migrants themselves, who travel by boat. “The risk is more on the people, not us. These people are going by boat. That’s the risk,” he said.
