A Gambian-born father of three living in the United Kingdom has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after admitting his role in arranging the entry of his cousin from The Gambia.
Cherno Jagne, 49, was jailed at Nottingham Crown Court after pleading guilty to three counts of facilitating a breach of UK immigration law.
The court heard that Jagne, who has lived in the UK since 2008, worked as a taxi driver while also holding an accountancy qualification. He was described as a hardworking individual who had not relied on state support and had consistently paid his taxes.
However, prosecutors said he made what was described as a “stupid decision” when he became involved with a man linked to a serious organised crime group operating between West Africa and the UK.
According to the prosecution, the network had been running a sophisticated operation that facilitated the entry of Gambian nationals into Britain using forged documents. Investigators linked the group to more than 200 arrivals and nearly 600 fake documents, some of which were used multiple times.
Jagne’s role involved providing passport photographs, documentation and payment to help arrange for his cousin to travel from Banjul to Manchester Airport.
Although the court accepted that he initially sought legitimate means to bring his relative to the UK, it became clear at an early stage that the process was unlawful. Despite this, he continued his involvement.
Sentencing him, Judge Michael Auty KC acknowledged Jagne’s positive contributions to society but stressed the seriousness of engaging with organised immigration crime.
“The person you dealt with was part of a serious organised crime group actively involved in illegal entry,” the judge said, adding that such operations pose significant challenges for UK authorities.
In mitigation, defence counsel said Jagne deeply regrets his actions and had been motivated by a desire to help a cousin he considered like a brother.
The court also heard that during his six months in custody prior to sentencing, Jagne had not told his children the truth about his situation, instead saying he was in the United States due to feelings of shame.
Authorities have indicated that other individuals connected to the wider criminal network are expected to face sentencing later this year.
