Smugglers Nabbed at Dover in High-Stakes Sting
Marius Bajenaru, 44, and Sorin-Costinel Ivan, 46, were caught red-handed at Dover port on 18 September 2025 in a dramatic National Crime Agency (NCA) raid. Dover, one of the UK’s busiest gateways, became the scene of a major bust involving desperate migrants packed into vehicles.
Shock Hauls: Vans and Lorries Packed with Migrants
- Bajenaru was found with 17 migrants stuffed inside his Romanian-registered panel van. Officers also uncovered nearly £4,000 in cash hidden in his cab.
- Ivan’s HGV trailer was crammed with 32 mostly Bangladeshi migrants. Bundles totalling almost £10,000 were seized from his lorry cab.
Courts Slam Door Shut on People Smugglers
Under pressure, Bajenaru admitted picking up migrants from a layby on the A20 near Ashford and pocketing around £200 per person. Ivan initially denied any knowledge but later pled guilty to aiding illegal immigration.
At Canterbury Crown Court on 25 November 2025, sentences were handed down:
- Sorin-Costinel Ivan: 3 years 4 months behind bars
- Marius Bajenaru: 2 years 8 months in prison
NCA Issues Grave Warning to Hauliers
Senior Investigating Officer John Turner said: “People smuggling gangs try to lure drivers with promises of easy money. It’s a trap with life-changing consequences. These criminals treat people like cargo, with zero concern for their lives. We’re working nonstop with partners to smash these rings.”
Spot Smuggling? Speak Up Now
The NCA, Border Force, and Crimestoppers urge haulage workers to stay alert to the rising tide of migrant smuggling. Suspicious activity can save lives.
Report tips anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. In emergencies, always call 999.
Report dated 27 November 2025
Track NCA Action on Twitter
Get the latest updates on people smuggling crackdowns via the NCA’s official Twitter feed.
