Thanh, who has spent nearly 20 years in the smuggling industry, provided a firsthand account of the complexities and dangers of illegal immigration from Vietnam to the UK. He detailed how many Vietnamese migrants are misled into thinking they can find better opportunities in the UK, often paying significant sums—between $15,000 and $20,000—to smugglers for the journey.
Despite his background, Thanh also claimed that most Vietnamese migrants are not trafficked but fabricate stories of trafficking to bolster their asylum claims. He indicated that many are simply seeking better lives due to economic struggles back home. However, the risks are substantial, with over 50 people dying in the Channel this year alone, emphasizing the perilous nature of these crossings.
In sharing his experiences, Thanh reflected on the dangers and disillusionment he and many others face, urging potential migrants to reconsider such perilous journeys and the often false promises made by smuggling networks. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the harsh realities of illegal immigration and the high costs—both financial and personal—associated with it.