UK Immigration Crackdown Sees Over 600 Arrests in January
The UK government ramped up its immigration enforcement efforts in January, making over 600 arrests—a 73% increase from the same period last year. Officials say the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to tackle undocumented migration and criminal networks involved in people smuggling.
According to a government statement on Monday, authorities conducted more than 800 raids on businesses such as nail salons, restaurants, car washes, and convenience stores, leading to 609 arrests, compared to 352 in January 2024.
Government’s Approach to Tackling Migration
Since taking office, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has shifted immigration policy, scrapping his predecessor Rishi Sunak’s controversial plan to deport migrants to Rwanda. Instead, his government has prioritized disrupting human trafficking networks and increasing enforcement action against those who hire undocumented workers.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized that for too long, businesses have taken advantage of undocumented workers without facing consequences.
“We are stepping up enforcement to record levels and introducing tougher laws to dismantle the criminal networks undermining our borders,” she said.
Rising Migration Numbers and Political Pressure
The issue of undocumented migration has been a major political flashpoint, particularly with the increase in small boat crossings from northern France. Last year, 36,816 people were detected crossing the English Channel—a 25% jump from 2023 figures.
Regular migration is also at historic highs, with estimates placing the total at 728,000 for the year leading up to June 2024. With growing support for Nigel Farage’s anti-immigration Reform UK party, which secured nearly four million votes in the last election, Starmer is under pressure to bring migration numbers down.
Strengthened Border Security Measures
As part of its crackdown, the UK has launched a new Border Security Command and strengthened cooperation with European partners, including Europol. The government has also signed agreements with Germany and Iraq to target smuggling networks, building on previous deals with France and Albania.
Additionally, migrant returns to their home countries have reached their highest levels since 2017, according to officials.
New Border Security Bill in Parliament
On Monday, lawmakers will debate the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill, which aims to give law enforcement expanded powers to dismantle criminal organizations involved in illegal migration.
The government says the bill will introduce “counter-terror style” tactics to target people-smuggling networks, signaling a tougher stance on border security in the months ahead.
