Labour is gearing up to enhance Britain’s borders with the creation of a new unit aimed at dismantling the criminal smuggling gangs responsible for bringing people across the Channel.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the upcoming Border Security Command as a “game-changer” in combatting organized crime and resolving the small boats crisis. The search for the unit’s leader will commence on Monday, with the expectation that the individual will have extensive experience in senior levels of policing, intelligence, or the military. The new head is anticipated to be appointed within weeks and will collaborate with intelligence agencies, law enforcement, immigration authorities, Border Force, and the National Crime Agency.
This initiative follows Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s announcement that the Conservative plan to deport migrants to Rwanda is no longer viable. The final two migrants detained under the failed scheme are set to be released.
The new Home Secretary has initiated a swift investigation into the latest smuggling routes and strategies employed by criminal gangs across Europe. Legislation is being drafted for enhanced counter-terrorism powers and stricter measures to combat organized immigration crime.
Ms. Cooper emphasized, “Criminal smuggling gangs are profiting immensely from small boat crossings, jeopardizing our border security and endangering lives. We cannot allow this to continue. It is imperative that we address the root of the issue by targeting these dangerous criminals and holding them accountable.”
She added, “The Border Security Command will mark a significant advancement in UK enforcement efforts against organized immigration crime, utilizing substantial resources to operate across Europe and beyond in disrupting trafficking networks and collaborating with European prosecutors to ensure justice is served.”
During his first press briefing since assuming office, Keir Starmer expressed his dismissal of the Rwanda deportation scheme, labeling it ineffective and non-deterrent. He highlighted the surge in migrant numbers in the first half of the year as a pressing concern that needs to be addressed without resorting to ineffective tactics.
A spokesperson for Ms. Cooper confirmed that the remaining two detained migrants are expected to be released on bail in the coming days.