New record for number of migrants intercepted in the English Channel in one day

The interception of irregular migrants trying to reach the UK via the English Channel has hit a new record after 145 people on eight boats were stopped in a single day. The incident took place on 8 May. The following day a further 82 migrants were intercepted. The migrants were Iranian, Iraqi, Kuwaiti, Syrian and Afghan nationals.

Minister for immigration compliance Chris Philp told BBC that smugglers are putting people’s lives at risk which is “totally unacceptable”. He said the UK government will chase and prosecute the “criminals perpetrating these heinous crimes.”

Home Secretary Priti Patel links the spike of the crossing numbers to the Covid-19 lockdown which was announced in Britain on 23 March. At least 836 migrants have been intercepted by UK border forces since then.

TMP – 12/5/2020

Photo Credit: Susan Pilcher
Photo caption: Greatstone, Kent, Great Britain – 31st December 2018. UK Border force officers inspect a small rib on the beach There are reports that this craft contained 12 migrants