The Smugglers' Trail

Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Documentaries

Factual

Sue Mitchell and Rob Lawrie investigate human trafficking, exposing some of those involved

With migrant boat crossings on the rise and with the dangers well documented, Sue Mitchell and Rob Lawrie track the smugglers and expose some of the gangs behind this deadly trade.

With migrant boat crossings on the rise and with the dangers well documented, BBC presenter Sue Mitchell and aid worker and former British soldier Rob Lawrie uncover the money that changes hands as migrants cross borders and expose some of those profiting from their desperation.

BBC Radio 4 FM

The Smugglers' Trail: In the Hands of a Smuggler

In the Hands of a Smuggler

BBC Radio 4 - The Smugglers' Trail, In the Hands of a Smuggler

Sue Mitchell & Rob Lawrie investigate smuggling networks, exposing some of those involved.

This series charts the rise of the smuggling networks and how they operate across the globe. BBC presenter Sue Mitchell and aid worker and former British soldier Rob Lawrie uncover the money that changes hands as migrants cross borders and expose some of those profiting from their desperation.

In programme one Rob Lawrie uses his network of contacts on the French camps to track down a gang leader who admits that he can make up to £100,000 a night from the Channel crossings. The smugger cautiously explains to Rob how things work, from the way that money changes hands and is laundered, through to the scenes that migrants face as they gather on the beaches waiting to make that journey from France to the UK.

This startling interview is given added tension because it takes place in a forest clearing as night sets in. Rob himself is searched before he is given access to the smuggler, who is guarded throughout by five armed men. Producer Sue Mitchell joins them by phone and both she and Rob tackle the smuggler over his role in the deaths of a family of five, who drowned when their boat sank just a few miles out from the French coast. 

Produced by Sue Mitchell

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

The Smugglers' Trail

In the Hands of a Smuggler

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4