Boat suppliers and owners warned to be alert for people smugglers
The National Crime Agency (NCA) has asked the marine industry and boat owners to be vigilant and report concerns about the purchase of boat equipment by people smugglers.
It has issued an alert following an increase in the number of people attempting to enter the UK via Channel crossings.
Organised crime groups are known to target legitimate sellers of vessels and equipment such as outboard motors and lifejackets, both in person and online. Boats and equipment have also been stolen, and owners are being urged to secure all gear.
The NCA said examples of potentially suspicious activity included cash being used in large sums to make payment, repeat purchasing of boats and/or equipment from the same retailer or customers wanting to complete their transaction and collection as quickly as possible.
Suspicious activity should be reported to the NCA via Crimestoppers quoting the alert reference ‘0647-OIC’, by calling the police on 101 or by visiting: www.gov.uk/report-border-crime