New UK sanctions aim to disrupt people smuggling networks and their finances
London: The UK government is stepping up its fight against people smuggling. They’re rolling out new sanctions aimed at hitting the finances of these criminal networks. The Home Office believes this will make it tougher for gangs to cash in on their illegal activities.
These measures are expected to kick in this year and are part of a broader strategy to tackle illegal migration into the UK. It’s a big deal because these sanctions are reportedly the first of their kind in the world specifically targeting people smugglers.
Sir Keir Starmer has chimed in, saying this move will disrupt the “illicit finance rings” that allow smugglers to exploit vulnerable individuals trying to cross Europe. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to dismantle these crime gangs that are breaching the UK’s borders.
Under the proposed rules, UK individuals and financial institutions would be legally barred from dealing with any sanctioned groups. The government is working on new legislation with input from sanction experts and law enforcement.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy is set to provide more details in a speech soon. He mentioned that these measures are designed to prevent and disrupt irregular migration and the smuggling of migrants into the UK.
Interestingly, the number of people detected crossing the English Channel in small boats rose by 25% in 2024 compared to the previous year. However, it’s still lower than the record highs seen in 2022.
With enhanced powers introduced last November, the UK’s Border Security Command can now freeze the bank accounts of smuggling networks. Plus, new laws have been announced that allow for travel bans and social media restrictions for suspected smugglers.
On the other side, Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel criticized Labour, claiming they lack credibility in tackling the people smuggling issue. She pointed out that they voted against tougher penalties and even scrapped the Rwanda deterrent.
