British border officers launch operation against drug traffickers: how they recruit young tourists.

Criminals use social media to attract young British tourists into smuggling

According to The Sun: Fraudsters use social media to capture the attention of young Britons and involve them in smuggling activities by posing as successful stars. The police of the United Kingdom have launched the Border Force operation to protect naive tourists.

Airport staff in the UK are looking for young people who are starting their travels abroad to warn them of potential risks.

Young individuals who are active on social media may receive offers for free trips to popular resorts such as Thailand or Ibiza, but end up in the clutches of criminals.

This is organized crime. It is a global problem. We are focusing on Thailand, but we are also looking at the Balearic Islands, Ibiza, Cyprus - all the places where young people like to go

Officer GoldstoneBorder Force

The aim of the operation is to protect young tourists who lack travel experience or may be visiting other countries for the first time. It particularly concerns those who can be considered 'quite naive'.

Young people who are targeted may become easy prey for dangerous groups promising a luxurious lifestyle. An example of this is former Asda store manager, 53-year-old Louise De Marco, who was brought from Thailand under the promise of a free trip. As practice shows, anyone can become a victim of these fraudsters through the allure of luxurious vacations and wealth.