On Friday, police had said two men had been arrested in connection with the incident, one of suspicion of entering the UK illegally and another on suspicion of people smuggling.
Emergency services were sent to the incident to the incident where six people were understood to have been treated.
Today Mr Al Mustafa aided by an Arabic interpreter, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth at Brighton Magistrates’ Court.
The court heard that while on the ferry, seven Vietnamese nationals that were concealed in a van escaped by breaking through a wall.
The prosecution divulged that four of the migrants were still in hospital and one was in a critical condition.
A Home Office spokesman said:
“Border Force, Immigration Enforcement and emergency services continue to investigate an incident in Newhaven on Friday.
“An individual has been charged with assisting unlawful entry into the UK.
“While the investigation is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”
Ferry operator DFDS, which runs services between Newhaven and Dieppe in Normandy, northern France, previously confirmed migrants were found on board the Seven Sisters vessel and said immediate medical attention was provided.
Al Mustafa has been remanded in custody after his arrest until his court appearance.
[Lead image PA Media]
