UK Allocates £75 Mln to Tackle Migrant Smuggling Networks

The United Kingdom has announced an additional allocation of £75 million aimed at combating migrant smuggling networks.

This significant funding move was revealed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office, marking a renewed effort to clamp down on organized crime syndicates facilitating dangerous cross-Channel journeys.

According to French news channel France Info TV, this new funding adds to the £150 million previously designated to bolster border security and disrupt gangs orchestrating perilous crossings across the English Channel.

These crossings, often made using overcrowded inflatable boats, have reached record levels, resulting in numerous fatalities.

Recent preliminary data disclosed last Thursday highlights that over 30,000 irregular migrants have landed on English shores in 2024, making the treacherous journey from France via the Channel.

The figures recorded last Wednesday showed 564 individuals arriving in 12 separate boats on a single day.

The situation has become increasingly alarming, with British coastguards documenting the arrival of around 5,200 migrants in October 2024 alone—one of the highest monthly figures to date.

The report accompanying these statistics pointed to the immense risk of drowning faced by those attempting the journey.