Two mini-marts in Leicestershire associated with a convicted human smuggler have been shuttered by local authorities after a BBC investigation. Twana Jamal, previously labeled the ‘godfather’ of migrant camps in northern France, was discovered running the stores in the Blaby area. Reporters observed him performing illegal work, operating a vehicle without a license, and seemingly using an alias.
Blaby District Council has implemented a 72-hour closure of both Candy Corner locations under anti-social behavior statutes, with a hearing set for July 6 to request an extension. Jamal, who is currently seeking asylum in the UK, was previously sentenced to five years in prison by French courts in 2016 for trafficking operations that generated massive weekly profits. UK regulations generally prohibit asylum for those with significant criminal records overseas.
Local politicians, including Member of Parliament Alberto Costa, expressed outrage that such an individual was operating a business in the community. Costa plans to escalate concerns to the Home Office regarding how such individuals are able to enter and remain in the country. Meanwhile, the BBC investigation suggests Jamal is not alone, identifying over 20 other convicted human smugglers residing in the UK. While the Home Office maintains that mandatory security screenings are in place, the case highlights growing difficulties in verifying international criminal histories following Brexit.
