People smuggler convicted in France now seeking asylum in UK, BBC discovers

A man described as "the godfather" of French migrant camps, who was convicted of people smuggling and sentenced to five years in France, is reportedly living in the UK and seeking asylum. Twana Jamal, identified as an Iraqi Kurd, was described by French authorities in 2016 as one of the most successful people smugglers apprehended, allegedly earning up to £100,000 weekly for transporting illegal immigrants across the Channel.

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the godfather

A BBC investigation traced Jamal to Leicestershire, where he was observed working and driving a car without a license, reportedly under a false name. His presence in the UK raises significant questions about the efficacy of current border controls, particularly in screening asylum seekers with prior serious criminal convictions abroad. Immigration officials have indicated that post-Brexit, verifying criminal records from some European countries has become more challenging.

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the most successful people smugglers ever caught

Law enforcement officials in mainland Europe have also informed the BBC that approximately 15 other convicted people smugglers are believed to be residing in the UK under assumed identities. Jamal was linked to the "Ranya Boys," a Kurdish gang reportedly dominating cross-channel people smuggling over the past 15 years. During his French trial, Jamal, who used the nickname "Pasha," claimed mistaken identity but was found guilty and faced deportation.

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We know everyone in this city, this city is ours.

Jamal reportedly boasted about his influence in Leicester, stating, "We know everyone in this city, this city is ours." He also claimed to be making "good money" and alluded to work involving "moving cigarettes." Despite admitting to driving without a license, he expressed no concern about being caught, asserting, "No-one touches us here. Even the police won't stop you."

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We received a tip-off that Jamal, another major figure in the trade, was now living and working in the UK. He was described as driving a BMW and looking "very very rich".