Ebid's case underscores the UK's efforts to combat illegal migration and human trafficking, highlighting the serious consequences of such criminal activities.

During his criminal activity from October 2022 until his arrest, Ebid coordinated with smuggling networks to operate boats, packing hundreds of migrants into unsafe vessels and advertising these crossings on social media.

Despite directing these operations from Isleworth, London, Ebid lived 2,500 miles away from Libya, where the perilous crossings originated.

Ebid was arrested in June 2023 following a collaborative investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and Italian authorities, which linked him to several dangerous crossings.

The judge described Ebid's operations as a commercial enterprise, emphasizing the considerable risk of loss of life involved in using unsafe fishing boats instead of ferries.

The court noted that Ebid's illegal operations generated millions of pounds from the hard-earned savings of desperate individuals, making him a direct beneficiary of this exploitation.

The National Crime Agency confirmed that Ebid's conviction represents a significant step in the ongoing fight against human trafficking and illegal migration.

In response to the sentencing, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his commitment to dismantling people smuggling gangs.

On May 20, 2025, Ahmed Ebid, a UK-based people smuggler, was sentenced to 25 years in prison at Southwark Crown Court for orchestrating a £12 million illegal boat crossing operation that exploited nearly 3,800 migrants.

Judge Adam Hiddleston condemned Ebid for ruthlessly exploiting vulnerable migrants, referring to them as 'cartons' rather than people, which highlighted his lack of empathy.

It is expected that Ebid will be deported after completing his prison sentence.

Investigators documented Ebid's operations through recorded conversations, revealing his strict rules for migrants during crossings.