Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, announced plans for the creation of a new UK Border Security Command (BSC) to enhance border security and crack down on criminal smuggling gangs profiting from small boat crossings.
The recruitment process for a skilled leader with experience in complex environments, such as policing, intelligence, or the military, will begin immediately. This new recruit will work closely with various agencies, including the National Crime Agency (NCA), intelligence agencies, police, Immigration Enforcement, and Border Force, to strengthen border protection and target smuggling gangs involved in small boat crossings.
In addition to establishing the remit and strategic direction of the BSC, the Home Office is preparing legislation to introduce counter-terror powers and stronger measures to combat organized immigration crime. A dedicated investigation by the department and the NCA will also identify the latest routes and tactics used by smuggling gangs across Europe.
The BSC will receive additional resources to recruit more investigators, experts, and analysts to tackle organized immigration crime, with a focus on disrupting criminal activities in Europe. The Home Secretary emphasized the importance of dismantling the business model of smuggling gangs by targeting their communication networks, transportation methods, and profits.
Cooper will engage with European interior ministers and Europol’s Director General this week to discuss enhancing security cooperation. She stated, “Criminal smuggling gangs are profiting from small boat crossings, endangering lives and compromising border security. We must address this issue head-on by targeting these criminals and holding them accountable.”
The establishment of the Border Security Command marks a significant step in combating organized immigration crime, with a strong focus on disrupting trafficking networks and collaborating with European prosecutors to ensure justice is served. Recruitment for a Border Security Commander and additional NCA capacity will commence promptly.