Major Supplier of Boats for Channel Crossings Arrested in Amsterdam

A Turkish national is suspected of providing equipment to smugglers in a significant international operation led by the UK's National Crime Agency.

The 44-year-old suspect was detained at Schiphol Airport and faces extradition to Belgium on human smuggling charges.
Authorities believe the man supplied boats and engines from Turkey to northern France, facilitating dangerous Channel crossings.
The arrest is part of a broader international effort involving Dutch, Belgian, and UK agencies to combat organized immigration crime.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing the issue but noted further steps are necessary.
Over 32,000 people have crossed the Channel to the UK this year, with more than 50 fatalities recorded during these perilous journeys.