Criminal networks charge up to £3,600 to help migrants circumvent the UK’s tough deportation measures to Rwanda by exploiting the open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Smugglers are reportedly assisting migrants to travel from the UK to Ireland, according to the National Crime Agency (NCA). Criminals, known as “facilitators,” reportedly charge up to £3,600 to help migrants avoid deportation to Rwanda by utilizing the open 310-mile land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. These facilitators are linked to Organized Crime Groups (OCGs) and operate by exploiting the common travel area. The NCA has highlighted their operations in response to the UK government’s strict measures against failed asylum seekers under “Operation Vector,” which includes detaining individuals for deportation to Rwanda.
Despite the UK’s introduction of the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act, over 2,000 migrants have reached the UK by boat since its enactment. The arrivals include children, representing a 35% increase compared to last year, totaling 8,674 so far this year. In response, more than 1,000 migrants have been prevented from arriving due to UK collaboration with French authorities in combating illegal journeys.
The continuation of Channel crossings and the arrival of migrants have led to various legal challenges and criticisms from organizations such as Asylum Aid and the FDA trade union. The UK government maintains that the partnership with Rwanda is a key strategy in managing the situation, emphasizing the ongoing need to strengthen legislation and international cooperation to prevent dangerous journeys and ensure the safety of migrants.
