A senior people smuggler identified in an investigation by the British Broadcasting Corporation has been arrested in Iraqi Kurdistan. Kardo Jaf, also known as Kardo Ranya, is suspected of running a network that transported thousands of migrants across the English Channel to the United Kingdom in small boats. He was detained by the Kurdistan Regional Security Agency on suspicion of human trafficking and remains in custody while investigations continue.

Jaf allegedly operated under multiple aliases to avoid detection, making it harder for authorities to issue an international arrest warrant. His real identity was uncovered by journalists during an investigation that revealed how he advertised smuggling services on social media, offering routes from Afghanistan to the United Kingdom at varying prices. He reportedly charged up to £160,000 for a so called VIP service, while less affluent migrants were allegedly sent on overcrowded and dangerous boat crossings.

The National Crime Agency described the arrest as potentially very significant, saying the suspect had been under active investigation by several law enforcement bodies. Small boat crossings have become the most common detected method of irregular entry into the United Kingdom in recent years, with most arrivals claiming asylum while their cases are assessed.