An organised crime group of elderly individuals stands accused of orchestrating a sophisticated people smuggling operation, allegedly receiving payments exceeding £5,000 per head for transporting illegal immigrants into the United Kingdom. The shocking details emerged during a trial at the Old Bailey, where prosecutors outlined a meticulously planned scheme that was ultimately foiled by an extensive undercover investigation.
Undercover Operation Uncovers Smuggling Network
The National Crime Agency initiated a covert surveillance mission, codenamed 'Operation Geochronic,' on July 5, 2019. Agents began monitoring Freddy Lawrence, identified as a key conspirator, which led them to a network of individuals meeting discreetly in pub car parks across Ramsgate, Broadstairs, Hythe, and Greenwich. Over three months, authorities gathered substantial evidence through surveillance and secret recordings.
From Boats to Lorries: The Evolving Smuggling Plan
Secret audio devices captured gang members discussing maritime methods, including references to boats, fuel procurement, and financial contributions. On September 1, 2019, two suspects departed Dover Marina aboard a vessel named 'To Kill A Mockingbird,' heading toward the French coast. They returned approximately five hours later without any migrants, suggesting their initial plan was disrupted.
The prosecution detailed how the scheme subsequently shifted to road transport. On September 7, 2019, following the undercover operation, police intercepted a lorry at a cricket club in Southall. Inside, they discovered twelve Afghan Sikh migrants who had been brought into the country illegally.
Substantial Cash Payments and Legal Proceedings
Four days after the interception, two defendants allegedly collected £64,945 in cash as payment for the smuggling enterprise. The accused individuals include Mark Youell, 68, from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex; Martin Babbage, 68, from Great Baddow, Essex; Paul Lane, 65, from Brentwood, Essex; Terry Brewer, 51, from Hatfield Perevel, Essex; and Rohit Chawla, 34, from Hayes, West London. All five deny charges of conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration, with Youell additionally pleading not guilty to possessing criminal proceeds.
Prosecutor Lesley Bates, KC, emphasised that all defendants are members of an organised crime group. The trial continues as the court examines the evidence gathered during the National Crime Agency's extensive investigation into this elaborate people smuggling network.
