West Midlands man charged over social media promotion of illegal immigration services
National Crime Agency collaborates with police in landmark investigation
Hem Raj, a 24-year-old Indian national from Smethwick, West Midlands, has been charged with promoting illegal immigration services via social media.
His arrest on 15th September resulted from a collaborative investigation between the National Crime Agency (NCA) and West Midlands Police, targeting the facilitation of immigration offences.
Raj faces charges under the new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025, marking the first instance of this offence being prosecuted.
In addition, Raj is charged with the illegal provision of immigration advice in contravention of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
He will appear before Birmingham Magistrates on 16th September.
NCA Branch Commander Kevin Broadhead emphasized the agency's commitment to dismantling organized immigration crime networks.
"This includes targeting those who facilitate offending using online platforms," Broadhead stated.
The investigation highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities and secure community welfare, tackling crime facilitated through digital means.