A man facilitated the illegal entry of 47 people into the UK.

The crimes of Kiki Gabar, also known as Salam Jabar, were uncovered after Sussex Police were called to reports of harassment at a hotel housing asylum seekers in Crawley on June 26.

It was later discovered that the victim, a 22-year-old woman, was smuggled in a small boat from France which was captained by Gabar, 29, of no fixed address.

An investigation was launched by Sussex Police and following enquiries with the Home Office and partner agencies, it was confirmed Gabar was involved in bringing the woman, and a total of 47 people, into the UK.

Gabar pleaded guilty to entering the UK illegally and was found guilty of facilitating the pre-travel arrangements for human trafficking in France, facilitating illegal entry of 47 people into the UK and common assault.

He was sentenced on Tuesday at Hove Crown Court to four years and one-month imprisonment.

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The victim, as well as the other 46 people who were smuggled into the country, are being supported and safeguarded by specialist officers and agencies.

Detective Chief Inspector Colin Garman, modern slavery and human trafficking lead, said: “Sussex Police take human trafficking and organised immigration offences extremely seriously, and the investigation team has worked tirelessly to secure this conviction.

"We will continue to work alongside partner agencies and victim support services to ensure that vulnerable people are supported and safeguarded from the harm that is caused by human trafficking, whilst ensuring those who take advantage of the vulnerable are held to account through the criminal justice system.”