Back at the cafe, Khal is clearly satisfied that Hamza is legit and they start talking about money.
His preference is for Hamza to accept a “package” deal that would cost him €15,000 (£12,500).
This involves collecting the boat near Calais along with its engine, fuel, pump and 60 life jackets. It’s more than Hamza said he needed, but it’s a comprehensive offer, and one that’s more likely to be offered to fellow smugglers who organize themselves. Crosswalk in France.
Assuming adults charge around 2,000 euros (£1,660) for a single trip with dozens of people on board, the smugglers’ profits are potentially “huge”, according to the Global Initiative.
If a deal is agreed now, Khal claims he could get the boat to a location just 200 meters (655 feet) off the French coastline by as early as tomorrow.
Khal and Sahar also mention a “new crossing point,” suggesting they have sought a location less likely to be monitored by French authorities, although they do not disclose the location.
There is a second cheaper option, which Hamza has repeatedly advocated.
For around €8,000 (£6,670), Hamza can pick up the boat directly from his warehouse here in Essen and drive it independently to northern France.
The smugglers say we are not responsible if they are caught.
The conversation is about how Hamza will pay the gang after he decides what to do.
Khal wants the cash to be paid in Turkey because “everything” comes from there.
He suggests that the money could be deposited through the Hawala system. This payment method eschews formal banking and instead relies on a network of agents to move cash across borders.
Later, Hamza sends his account name on WhatsApp.
Other messages and voice notes in Arabic sent after the cafe meeting include Sahar describing the brand of outboard motor. He “loves” Mercury products, but says, “If you have a Yamaha, I prefer the Yamaha.”
He talks about how the equipment can be “delivered and buried”, implying that it could be hidden underground near the junction. “Calais, because it is difficult.” That’s why Boulogne is a better option.
