Smuggler Offers Illegal Migrants a Cheap Price to Enter the UK If They Do This for Him
Alp Mehmet, the head of Migration Watch UK, finds a new tactic used by people smuggling gangs “disturbing.” These gangs are offering cheaper Channel crossings to migrants who agree to film their journey and share it on social media to promote the service. This strategy was revealed by Paul Brisley from the National Crime Agency.
The gangs hope that by showing successful crossings on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, they can attract more customers. Some migrants are reportedly offered discounts of up to £1,000 for filming their trips. Paul Brisley explained that the gangs use these videos as advertisements to encourage others to make the dangerous journey.
Brisley also mentioned that the criminals are offering discounts to families, specific nationalities, and women and children. They are even using social media to advertise other illegal services, such as fake documents and fraudulent visa assistance.
Alp Mehmet expressed concern, stating that the smugglers’ entrepreneurial tactics are ruthless and generate millions each year. Steve Smith, CEO of Care4Calais, emphasized that the UK government needs to create safe routes for refugees to claim asylum. He argued that without safe options, dangerous Channel crossings will continue, and more lives will be lost. Smith pointed to the success of the Ukrainian visa scheme as proof that safe routes can work.
Recent Home Office data shows that 4,393 migrants arrived in the UK via the Channel between January and March 10 this year, a significant increase compared to the same period last year. Since Labour came to power last July, small boat arrivals have risen by 28%, totaling 27,373.
