Government introduces new rules to stop smuggling gangs bringing migrants into the UK illegally

The government is introducing new rules to stop smuggling gangs that bring migrants into the UK illegally. These gangs often risk people’s lives and make huge profits by organizing dangerous journeys across the Channel. The new rules aim to disrupt their operations even before they are convicted of any crime. 

Under the plan, Interim Serious Crime Prevention Orders will be used to restrict suspected smugglers. These orders can ban them from traveling, freeze their bank accounts, and stop them from using mobile phones, laptops, or social media. Suspects may also be prevented from meeting other gang members or accessing money, making it harder for them to continue their illegal activities. 

The National Crime Agency (NCA) will apply for these court orders, which will only be enforced in England and Wales for now. The idea is to stop smuggling gangs early, even when there isn’t enough evidence to take them to court. 

Smuggling gangs are highly organized and operate across multiple countries, which makes it hard to gather evidence and convict them. These new rules aim to weaken their ability to operate by limiting their movements, communication, and access to money. 

Recently, the NCA has had some successes, including the arrest of a Turkish man accused of supplying small boats to smuggling gangs. Three Afghan men, believed to have helped thousands of migrants travel illegally through Europe and into the UK, were also arrested. 

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said that dangerous smugglers are risking lives and undermining border security for profit. She emphasized the importance of international cooperation to stop them. Cooper’s team is also hoping to use MI5 resources to monitor smugglers, track their movements, and dismantle their networks. 

These new measures are part of the government’s plan to tackle the migrant crisis and strengthen border security, making it harder for smuggling gangs to operate and profit from illegal activities.