French People Smuggler Convicted of Aiding Illegal Migration Seeks UK Asylum

A man convicted in France for his involvement in facilitating illegal migration has been found residing in a Leicestershire village, actively pursuing an asylum claim in the UK. Iranian national, Hojat Askary, received a six-month suspended sentence from a French court in 2021 after being found guilty of aiding illegal stays for migrants.

Mr. Askary was reportedly known as the 'godfather' of French migrant camps, a title reflecting his influence among those attempting to cross into Britain. He was apprehended in 2020 near Calais following an investigation into his activities.

Despite his conviction, Mr. Askary has been working in an agricultural role in Coston, Leicestershire, a village of approximately 100 residents. He claims to have made an asylum application on arrival in the UK, asserting that his life is at risk in Iran. This case highlights the ongoing challenges facing the UK's immigration system, particularly concerning individuals with prior convictions related to migration offences.