Leicestershire Mini-Marts Linked to Convicted People Smuggler Shut Down
Rachel Morgan
Two Leicestershire mini-marts associated with convicted people smuggler Twana Jamal have been closed by Blaby District Council following a BBC investigation. Jamal, previously jailed in France for people smuggling, was reportedly found working illegally at the premises.
- Two Candy Corner mini-marts in Blaby, Leicestershire, have been closed for 72 hours.
- The closures follow a BBC investigation linking the shops to Twana Jamal, a convicted people smuggler.
- Jamal, once described as 'the godfather' of French migrant camps, was jailed for five years in France in 2016.
- Reporters observed Jamal allegedly working illegally at both shops and driving without a licence.
- An application for a three-month closure of the shops will be heard at Leicester Magistrates Court.
- Jamal is believed to be seeking asylum in the UK, despite UK law typically refusing asylum to those with 12+ months overseas prison sentences.
Two mini-marts in Leicestershire have been temporarily closed by Blaby District Council, following a BBC investigation that linked them to a convicted people smuggler. The authorities' decision to shut down the Candy Corner stores comes after allegations emerged of links between Twana Jamal and the outlets.
Jamal, an Iraqi Kurd, was given a five-year prison sentence in France in 2016 for people smuggling. It's reported that he earned up to £100,000 per week from this illicit activity. During his trial, Jamal claimed mistaken identity but was ultimately found guilty. Upon release from custody, he faced deportation to Iraqi Kurdistan.
Documents suggest Jamal is currently seeking asylum in the UK, stating he has applied and is 'still waiting'. However, under UK law, individuals who have spent 12 months or more in prison overseas typically face refusal of asylum.
Local Conservative MP for South Leicestershire, Alberto Costa, described Jamal's actions as 'utterly unacceptable', claiming he should not be in the country. Prior to the BBC investigation, local Liberal Democrat councillors reported multiple complaints about the stores, including alleged sales of illegal vapes and tobacco.
Leicestershire County Council acknowledged receiving reports regarding these issues, stating they work with police and Blaby District Council to address high street crime. Leicestershire Police will implement proactive patrols in the area, collaborating with local authorities.
The presence of Jamal in the UK raises questions about current border controls in vetting asylum seekers with serious criminal histories from overseas.
Why this matters: This story highlights potential vulnerabilities in the UK's asylum system and raises concerns about the enforcement of laws against individuals with serious criminal backgrounds. It also underscores the importance of local council and police action in response to community concerns about illegal activities.
What this means for you: What this means for you: This case could lead to increased scrutiny of the asylum application process and border security, potentially affecting future immigration policies. It also demonstrates the role of local authorities and public reporting in tackling crime and ensuring community safety in your area.