NCJ Number
190080
Date Published
September 1999
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper examined transnational smuggling of aliens and stolen vehicles.
Abstract
The smuggling of aliens is different from traditional smuggling in two respects: it requires special attention to ensure the safe transport of human beings, and it represents a dual benefit for the criminal syndicates organizing the clandestine operations. While goods may earn a profit, aliens not only pay to be transported but can be used as indentured workers in slavery-like conditions in destination countries. In contrast to the special conditions and procedures for smuggling aliens, moving stolen vehicles is comparatively simple. The vehicles can be acquired by professional car thieves or purchased through bogus trading and transportation companies. Vehicles can be hidden in secret compartments within a conveying vessel or dismantled and shipped as parts to be reassembled at their final destination. Addressing the problem of smuggling may involve: (1) timely and effective use of intelligence regarding participants and activities; (2) identifying the "money trails" and seizing syndicates' assets; (3) cooperation from innocent parties who have been unwittingly involved in the process; (4) liaison with authorities in destination countries; and (5) using technology to blend disparate strands of information into a picture of smuggling operations that can be interpreted and evaluated by intelligence analysts.