In the wake of a devastating dinghy disaster that claimed the lives of five individuals, the United Kingdom has intensified its efforts to combat illegal migration. Home Secretary James Cleverly and his Italian counterpart, Matteo Piantedosi, have joined forces to target popular migration routes at their source, aiming to disrupt the operations of human traffickers and curb the influx of illegal migrants.
Their discussions centered around strategies to close down well-established paths through Southern and Eastern Europe and Africa. Additionally, they explored Italy’s proposal to process asylum claims in Albania. These initiatives come as it emerged that a group of approximately 30 African men forcibly boarded an overcrowded dinghy on Tuesday, mere hours after Parliament approved legislation to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing.
Sources indicate that the uninvited passengers’ arrival caused the vessel to become unstable, resulting in approximately 50 individuals falling into the frigid waters off the French coast. Despite the incident, the group, believed to be of Eritrean or Sudanese origin, insisted on continuing their journey, with 58 passengers ultimately reaching the UK. However, no asylum claims will be processed until police and the National Crime Agency have thoroughly questioned each individual.
The NCA has since apprehended three individuals, including two Sudanese men aged 19 and 22, and a 22-year-old South Sudanese national, on suspicion of trafficking. In a statement to The Sun, Cleverly emphasized, “We are not the only nation grappling with the issue of illegal migration. Countries around the world are likewise seeking innovative solutions to dismantle people-smuggling networks. Illegal migration is a global concern that necessitates international cooperation. Our Rwanda strategy is a reflection of this very principle.”
The Refugee Council has expressed reservations about the Rwanda plan, estimating that only 2,000 individuals will be relocated to Rwanda by year’s end. It further claims that just 10,000 will be eligible for removal to their country of origin, leaving 115,000 in a state of “indefinite limbo,” with estimated annual accommodation costs of £6.2 billion.
Separately, Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron has faced criticism for suggesting that the migrant crisis was more manageable prior to Brexit. He cited the Dublin Convention, which allowed for the return of individuals to France. However, leading Brexiteer Nigel Farage countered that only a small number of asylum seekers were returned under the convention, compared to the more than 120,000 who have crossed the Channel since 2018. He asserted, “It’s evident that Lord Cameron’s true aim is to steer us back into the EU.”
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has expressed his willingness to undertake the Rwanda flights should aircraft be available.
