Crime Gangs Risk Lives with Death Trap Boats for Channel Crossings
Organised crime groups are using bigger, rickety inflatables up to 10 metres long to smuggle people across the Channel, the National Crime Agency (NCA) warns. These unbranded, grey and black vessels are often barely seaworthy and made solely for trafficking desperate migrants.
Boats Held Together With Gaffer Tape and Plastic Bottoms Give Way
Some boats caught just before a tragic sinking that killed 27 people were literally held together with gaffer tape. In one July incident, a flimsy plastic boat bottom gave way, plunging migrants into cold water before Border Force rescued them. The NCA says these dangerous craft offer zero commercial use and are often improvised with sub-standard materials to squeeze in more people.
Martin Grace, Head of Organised Immigration Crime at the NCA, said: “These boats are likely made and sold online just for people smuggling. It’s something we are zeroing in on.”
NCA Targets Supply Chains in Joint Raids Across France
The NCA recently teamed up with French police in raids across Calais, Le Havre and Paris, smashing a crime gang supplying boats holding 40 to 60 migrants. Eighteen suspects were arrested for recruiting from migrant camps and providing unsafe vessels for Channel crossings.
Dan O’Mahoney, Home Office Clandestine Channel Threat Commander, said: “This tragedy is a stark reminder of the deadly risks from these organised crime groups profiting off Channel crossings. We’re working hand-in-glove with European partners to stop them.”
Warning Signs for Maritime Industry to Spot Smugglers
The NCA has urged the maritime sector to stay vigilant. Warning signs include:
- Large cash payments for boats or equipment
- Unusual combos of boats and accessories
- Bulk buying of life jackets or safety gear
- Repeated purchases from the same seller
- Buyers uninterested in condition or usage of boats
- Rushed transactions and evasive collection arrangements
Martin Grace added: “These smugglers don’t care if people die—they just exploit desperation for profit. The Winter seas only worsen the dangers.”
Ongoing Battle to Smash Organised Immigration Crime
The NCA is working closely with agencies in France, Belgium and beyond to dismantle these deadly networks. With around 50 active investigations and over 140 arrests since 2021, the fight against Channel people smuggling shows no sign of letting up.
