UK Takes Tough Stance Against Balkan-Based Criminal Networks

The UK government has taken decisive action against Balkan-based criminal networks involved in the production of forged documents used for human trafficking. On Wednesday, several gangs and individuals were sanctioned as part of Britain's efforts to curb illegal migration.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored the importance of collaborating with European partners to shut down the criminal routes through the Western Balkans. Starmer's remarks came ahead of a summit in London with Western Balkan leaders, focusing on illegal migration, regional security, and collective threats.

Among those sanctioned were a Kosovo-based organized crime group responsible for supplying false documents, and a Croatian gang leader linked to distributing forged Croatian passports. Additional sanctions targeted individuals and a trading company involved in facilitating illegal migration through money transfers and acquiring boat components.