Convicted Fraudster Fights Deportation for Over Two Decades, Remains in UK

Download IPFS

A man convicted of multiple fraud offences, including a multimillion-pound mortgage scam, has remained in the United Kingdom for over 25 years despite repeated judicial orders for his deportation. Zambian national Alick Kapikanya, aged 57, has long evaded removal following a series of appeals and legal proceedings spanning more than two decades.

Kapikanya was first notified of possible deportation in February 1992, shortly after his conviction for attempted fraud. Although he served a prison sentence for theft in March 2000, he subsequently lost an appeal against deportation. However, no order was issued to enforce his removal at that time.

A second deportation order was handed down in February 2010 following another conviction related to dishonesty. Despite this, Kapikanya once again appealed and was granted leave to remain in the country. These decisions formed part of an extended legal battle that has allowed him to remain in the UK for more than two decades, even as further criminal activity emerged.

In 2014, Kapikanya was sentenced to six years in prison by Manchester Crown Court for orchestrating a complex mortgage fraud scheme valued at £3.5 million. The case involved the use of stolen identities belonging to elderly individuals across Greater Manchester and the North West of England. The fraudulent operation saw gang members unlawfully claim ownership of properties and repeatedly re-mortgage them, reaping substantial financial gain.

During sentencing, the presiding judge described the crimes as “calculated and exploitative,” with the victims, many of whom were unaware their identities had been stolen, left traumatised and financially vulnerable. The court further heard how the fraud was sustained over a lengthy period and involved multiple false documents, deceitful applications, and the manipulation of financial institutions.

In light of these offences, a judge once again ruled that Kapikanya should be deported. However, concerns have been raised regarding the enforcement of deportation decisions, particularly in cases involving repeated criminal activity.

Legal experts suggest that lengthy appeals processes and gaps in enforcement can hinder the effective implementation of removal orders. While the Home Office has not issued a public statement on this specific case, it has previously affirmed its commitment to removing foreign nationals who commit serious crimes in the UK.

The case underscores wider challenges within the immigration enforcement system, especially regarding persistent offenders who remain in the country despite multiple convictions. With growing public interest in matters relating to justice and community safety, the continued presence of individuals like Kapikanya has prompted renewed scrutiny of the deportation appeals process.

At present, Kapikanya’s legal status remains under review. Meanwhile, the victims of his crimes and members of the wider public continue to call for greater accountability and swifter action in similar cases.