Six immigration officers in the UK have been charged with a series of offences, including money laundering and theft from migrants, following an extensive investigation by the Home Office. The charges, which also encompass conspiracy to steal and misconduct in public office, were announced by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and involve officers from Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, and London.

Details of the Investigation

The investigation, which spanned from August 2021 to November 2022, uncovered alleged criminal activities involving the theft of money from migrants. Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, stated, "Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings." The CPS collaborated closely with the Home Office’s anti-corruption criminal investigations unit throughout the process.

Charges and Accused Individuals

Among those charged is Besmir Matera, 36, from Reigate, Surrey, who faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to steal, misconduct in public office, and possession of identity documents with improper intention. Other officers charged with similar offences include Jack Mitchell, 33, of Dover, Kent; Lee-Ann Evanson, 42, of Bracknell, Berkshire; John Bernthal, 53, of Welling, south-east London; and Ben Edwardes, 45, of Bexleyheath, south-east London. David Grundy, 43, of Croydon, south London, is charged with concealing, disguising, converting, transferring, or removing criminal property.

Court Proceedings

The six accused officers are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 29 January. The CPS has emphasized the significance of these proceedings, highlighting the serious nature of the charges and the impact on public trust in immigration services.