'Passport conspiracy smashed'

Anti-Terrorist Branch officers smashed an Algerian-run international passport conspiracy, a court heard.

Hundreds of "convincing" French, Belgian and Portuguese documents were seized. The haul, smuggled into Britain in a holidaymaker's luggage, had been bound for a "forger's factory" in London. It was equipped with computers, "authentification stamps" and dozens of passport-size photographs, Southwark Crown Court heard.

Izem Kamel, 29, an Algerian living in Catford, denies conspiracy to use false instruments, plotting to use them, and having them with intent. The trial continues.