Surge in Migrant Crossings as Nearly 11,000 Reach British Waters

Over 400 migrants are currently believed to be attempting to cross the Channel to reach the UK, according to reports from GB News. The Border Force is actively trying to intercept as many as seven dinghies launched by smugglers, which could increase the total number of asylum seekers arriving in British waters to nearly 11,000—just a day after the figure surpassed 10,000. The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has pointed to the calm weather conditions as a major factor contributing to the unprecedented rise in small boat arrivals this year.

The Home Office confirmed that 473 migrants successfully arrived on eight boats on Monday, marking a significant increase in the annual total, which now stands at a minimum of 10,358. This spike follows a previous influx of 247 migrants who arrived on five vessels the day before. When questioned about her effectiveness in curbing these crossings, Cooper expressed concerns over border security and the dangers posed to lives, emphasizing the importance of addressing the criminal gangs involved in human smuggling.

Cooper noted that the early arrival of more than 10,000 migrants this year is unprecedented, as last year this threshold was not crossed until late May, whereas in 2023 it occurred on June 17. She indicated that the UK has successfully encouraged the French government to modify their policies, allowing their police to intercept boats in the water, which has historically been restricted. She explained that these criminal gangs have been launching boats further up the coast, exploiting a gap in the French rules that previously limited police intervention. Cooper reassured that these policy changes would be implemented over the coming months to enhance border security and mitigate the risks involved in these crossings.