A Co Armagh man has appeared in court in Scotland accused of smuggling 14 Albanian nationals into the UK in the back of a livestock lorry.
Patrick McKinney was arrested on December 11 at the Loch Ryan ferry terminal at Cairnryan.
Home Office officials said the 23-year-old has been charged with 14 separate counts related to facilitating illegal entry into the UK.
He also faces an additional charge of culpable and reckless conduct in connection with the incident.
According to the BBC, McKinney first appeared at Stranraer Sheriff Court on December 12. He has not yet entered a plea.
He remains in custody while Home Office Criminal and Financial Investigations officers continue their enquiries.
The operation was carried out after authorities received reports of suspected people smuggling at the terminal.
Home Office Criminal and Financial Investigations lead Anthony Hilton said: “Our investigation remains ongoing, and we continue to carry out inquiries at pace.
“We’re doing everything we can to stay ahead of the people smugglers who exploit our borders and put the lives of desperate people on the line for financial gain.”
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