Say no to people smuggling

Haulier drivers are often approached by people smugglers who frequently sell migrants into modern slavery.

People smuggling is a serious offence. In 2019, 39 people died whilst hiding in a refrigerated lorry. 

Whether you are a haulage driver or regular road user you can help keep people safe.

If you see anything suspicious, report it before it’s too late.
 

Call the police on 101. In an emergency, call 999.

If you have information about people smugglers and want to remain 100% anonymous, tell us what you know.

Just call freephone 0800 555 111 or use our online form

For those working in the haulage industry, you can tell us if you have seen or suspect the following:

• Other drivers being approached to carry items for payment.
• False driving licence or driver identification.
• Regular breaches of security within the port complex you visit.
• Unusual methods of payment or transactions by or between drivers and their customers. (Is the wagon and/or trailer safe and being used legally?)
• Suspicious or unusual activity by people or vehicles around the wagon/trailer.
• Incorrect or unusual operation or appearance of the wagon (i.e. use of red diesel/overweight).
• An unusual use of the wagon by the owner or operator.
• A modification to a wagon/trailer you see regularly.
• Regular unexpected or last-minute diversions to the route used by a driver or company.
• Suspicions surrounding a specific company or driver regarding suspicious or illegal activity.
• Unusually cheap service.
• Specific overseas locations of where you have seen unusual or possibly criminal activity taking place.
• Social media groups offering opportunities to bid for loads.
• Changing of number plates and potential convoy vehicles.

 

If you see any of the below, call the police on 101. In an emergency, call 999.

Signs to spot at service stations or lay-bys include:

• People emerging from a lorry or HGV, especially suddenly or as if in a rush not to be seen.
• Hearing banging from the inside of a lorry.
• A group of people heading towards, or going inside of, the back of a lorry.
• The lack of a visible and intact seal on a trailer.
• Cab and trailer being registered in different countries.
• Use of unbranded trailers.
• Lorries parked in unusual places.
• Taxis/mini buses or private vehicles entering lorry parks, particularly at night.
• Migrants being picked up by a waiting vehicle.
• If anything about the vehicle doesn’t seem quite right – for example, if produce is being thrown from it or something is being done to catch the attention of other motorists.

If you suspect someone is hiding in your vehicle
Don’t approach anyone hiding in your vehicle. You should stay in your cab and contact the local police.
 

Call the police on 101. In an emergency, call 999.

Keep your vehicle secure
Visit www.gov.uk/secure-your-vehicle-to-help-stop-illegal-immigration to download Border Force and the Home Office’s Code of Practice on the Prevention of Clandestine Entry, and a vehicle checklist template.
 
Learn more about organised immigration crime
Visit the National Crime Agency (NCA) website here.