This measure forms part of the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill aimed at cracking down on the rising number of migrants arriving in the UK via small boats.

While assisting illegal immigration is already a crime, officials believe the new offence will give police and agencies greater powers to disrupt people-smuggling networks.

Figures released last week show that over 25 000 migrants have crossed the Channel by small boats so far in 2025, a record number for this stage of the year. Analysis by the Home Office reveals that around 80% of these migrants reported using social media during their journey, including to contact agents connected to smuggling gangs.

–ChannelAfrica–