Significant Progress in UK-France Cooperation on Illegal Crossings
In the initial three months following the landmark agreement between the UK and France, newly deployed French units have made remarkable strides in addressing the issue of illegal crossings via small boats. Reports from French authorities indicate that between 27 April and 2 August, officers successfully intervened in 185 attempted crossings.
This proactive approach resulted in the prevention of 61% of all small boat incidents during this period, marking an increase of nearly 5% compared to the same timeframe in 2022. Additionally, there were four separate weeks in which French forces managed to intercept every potential crossing event, achieving an impressive 100% prevention rate.
These actions have directly thwarted over 4,300 attempted crossings, significantly reducing the number of migrants reaching UK shores. French authorities assert that many more attempts were likely halted before they could even reach the beaches of France.
Multifaceted Strategies to Combat Smuggling
Throughout May, June, and July, French officers employed a variety of tactics to dismantle smuggling networks and disrupt migrant crossings. Their efforts included direct interventions on beaches, halting boats before they could launch, and preventing migrants from boarding taxi boats.
An example of this proactive stance occurred in May when French units intercepted a potential launch south of Calais, uncovering three groups totalling nearly 100 migrants, alongside a boat concealed in foliage, fuel cans, and an engine. This operation effectively neutralised the crossing attempt.
In another instance that same month, police dispersed a large crowd of migrants and apprehended a suspected smuggler just 3 kilometres from the French coast. In July, officers employed surveillance technology to monitor a group heading towards Dunkirk, subsequently intervening to prevent another crossing.
Targeting Smugglers with Advanced Technology
French authorities have also been successful in seizing equipment used in smuggling operations. For instance, in May, officers intercepted a vehicle transporting a boat and engine, resulting in the arrest of a suspected smuggler. Similarly, in June, two individuals were apprehended while transporting nautical equipment, including a boat and fuel containers.
In July, a Gendarmerie drone identified a group of migrants carrying a boat engine, leading to further intervention and the seizure of the boat. The French units have also adopted maritime tactics, successfully intercepting 12 taxi boats since the new operational strategies were introduced on 3 March, with three interceptions occurring within the last two weeks alone.
Impact of the UK-France Deal on Detention and Deportation
The focus of French officers extends beyond merely preventing launches. A trial initiated on 1 May as part of the UK-France agreement has thus far resulted in the detention of 119 migrants, with 76 currently in custody, 32 released, and 40 deported back to their home countries or other EU nations. This represents over 33% of those detained.
This trial is being conducted alongside the construction of a permanent Immigration Removal Centre in Dunkirk. Following the agreement, two additional police units have been deployed to French beaches, including a 50-person riot police unit with specialised training for managing large groups of illegal migrants.
Enhanced Surveillance and Law Enforcement Measures
In a bid to bolster their capabilities, the French authorities are investing millions in drone surveillance, two new helicopters, and advanced camera systems aimed at intercepting smuggling operations. The Home Secretary has indicated that this month has seen a record deployment of National Crime Agency officers to combat people smuggling, with the number of dedicated personnel nearly doubling since the start of 2025, from 276 to almost 800.
These officers are collaborating closely with international partners, having seized over 1,100 small boats or engines since the election. The Home Secretary’s sweeping reforms to the immigration system aim to eliminate incentives for illegal migration to the UK and significantly increase the removal of individuals without legal rights to remain in the country, building on the over 80,000 removals since taking office.