HC Deb 17 September 2004 vol 424 c1909W
Mr. Oaten

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many people-smuggling operations were disrupted in the last year for which figures are available. [187083]

Mr. Browne

Reflex, the multi agency task force on organised immigration crime disrupted 38 groups involved in organised immigration crime between April 2003 and April 2004.

Between April 2004 and the end of June 2004 there have been 15 further disruptions.

In addition to the work underway within Reflex, the Immigration Service also undertakes routine investigations against those involved in immigration related crime, including facilitators, procurement or supply of forged documentation and illegal working. Figures are not yet available for the number of smuggling operations disrupted as a result of this activity.