A BBC investigation has uncovered that people smugglers are using UK-registered businesses to facilitate illegal crossings of the English Channel.Over three months, undercover researchers discovered that a mobile phone shop in Woolwich, along with other businesses in Newcastle and Cambridgeshire, were being used to transfer payments to smugglers operating in France.Migrants attempting the crossing could deposit up to £3,000 in cash or make electronic transfers through these firms.Smugglers assured payments would only be forwarded upon successful crossings, although safety was not guaranteed.The investigation also traced other payment options across Europe, including car washes in Belgium and restaurants in France.

Experts from the Royal United Services Institute highlighted the unusual brazenness of the smugglers, reflecting the challenge authorities face in tracking illicit profits.

Despite government efforts to 'smash' these gangs, only a fraction of the proceeds from smuggling operations have been recovered, with confiscation orders falling short of total criminal gains.

UK authorities, including the National Crime Agency, continue to target these networks, but the investigation indicates the resilience and adaptability of organised people-smuggling operations.