Langley spiritual leader charged with human smuggling

A 64-year-old man has been charged with human smuggling following a long and complex investigation by the RCMP.

The investigation started in 2010 after the RCMP found illegal cross border movement between Canada and the U.S. Along with U.S. immigration and homeland security officials, the RCMP started an investigation focusing on a South Asian male, who was alleged to be using his status as a spiritual leader to help people within the community, gain entry into Canada.

Joga Singh Badwal was charged in December 2014 with one count of smuggling 10 or more people and one count of failing to bring persons for examination when entering into Canada.

Badwal’s next court date is set for Feb. 10 in Surrey.