The government of the United Kingdom (UK) has officially gained the right to confiscate mobile phones from migrants without the need for arrest.
Starting today, officials at the Manston processing center in Kent began using on-site technology to download data from the devices.
The government claims that this step is important to eliminate the people trafficking network.
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The measures come after a year of record-high activity. In 2025, a total of 41,472 migrants crossed the English Channel in small boats. This represents an increase of nearly 5,000 from the previous year and is the highest figure recorded since 2022.
Under these strengthened rules, officers can now demand that individuals remove coats to be searched or even check for a SIM card hidden in their mouth.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) believes the data will provide a “treasure trove” of intelligence to accelerate investigations into gangs facilitating dangerous Channel crossings.
Border Security Minister Alex Norris stressed the government's commitment to border integrity, saying:
“We have pledged to restore order and control at our borders, which means cracking down on the people smuggling networks behind this deadly trade. That's why we are implementing stronger new laws with powerful crimes to stop, disrupt and dismantle these rogue gangs faster than ever before and cut off their supply chains.”
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Martin Hewitt, the officer leading efforts to curb crossings, said that although more than 4,000 disruptions have already occurred, this is a turning point.
He said Monday was an important moment to move forward with additional equipment to crack down on smugglers.
Strict punishment and change in policy
The new law doesn't just target data; It provides for severe criminal penalties for those who promote illegal entry.
Individuals caught storing or supplying boat engines for illegal crossings can face up to 14 years in prison.
Additionally, smugglers caught downloading maps for departure points or sourcing equipment online now face up to five years in prison.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has also hinted at significant changes to the asylum system, aimed at increasing deportations and curbing arrivals.
Political and humanitarian response
The move has sparked heated debate in Westminster. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Phillips criticized the measures as inadequate and argued that the Labor government was only making “cosmetic changes”.
“With over 41,000 people expected to arrive in 2025, the government needs to get a proper grip on the situation,” Philip commented, reiterating the Conservative stance that the UK should consider leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) to create a real deterrent.
On the other hand, the Refugee Council has urged caution regarding the proportionality of these searches. The charity pointed out that phones are a lifeline for vulnerable people who need to keep in touch with their families, and stressed that it is essential that these powers are not used indiscriminately.
