An Italian national has admitted to facilitating illegal immigration into the UK, telling a court he was motivated by a need to raise funds for his mother's cancer treatment.
Christian Albano, 45, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on September 3 and pleaded guilty to a single charge of assisting unlawful immigration. The court heard that Albano, described as the "pilot" of a vessel, became involved in the smuggling operation to "make quick money" for his unwell mother in Italy.
Albano was one of five men accused of criminal conduct related to a boat crossing between June 29 and July 2. The vessel reportedly traveled from the Netherlands and arrived near Holland-on-Sea, Essex. Six individuals found on board were detained and are being processed by Immigration Enforcement.
Three other men, Konrad Dabrowski, 25, Damian Ciuron, 41, and Illia Prendi, deny the same offense. Albanian national Fation Kalemaj, 44, also faces the charge but was not present in court to enter a plea. The National Crime Agency confirmed the charges were in connection with an incident where several people were detained for immigration offenses.
Albano's defense lawyer stated that he wishes to be deported as soon as possible, acknowledging that his sentence will lead to his removal from the UK. He reiterated his client's claim that his involvement was solely to secure funds for his parents' medical expenses.
A provisional trial date for the co-defendants has been set for March of the following year. Judge Wilkin informed Albano that his sentencing would occur after the conclusion of his co-defendants' trial, and he was remanded into custody. All five men remain in custody.