The United Kingdom has introduced new enforcement powers allowing border officials to seize mobile phones and SIM cards from migrants who enter the country illegally, as the government intensifies efforts to dismantle people-smuggling networks behind Channel crossings.
The new measures, which took effect on Monday at the Manston migrant processing centre in Kent, do not require an arrest and represent a significant escalation in the UK’s border control strategy. According to the Home Office, the powers are designed to strengthen intelligence gathering and accelerate investigations into organised smuggling operations.
Under the policy, officials can confiscate phones and SIM cards suspected of containing information linked to illegal migration routes, facilitators, or payment networks. Officers are also authorised to download data directly from seized devices, a capability the government says will help identify and disrupt criminal gangs coordinating dangerous small-boat crossings across the English Channel.
Expanded Search Powers at Entry Points
In addition to device seizures, the new rules permit border officers to ask migrants to remove outer clothing to reveal concealed phones. In some cases, officials may also check inside mouths for hidden SIM cards or small devices, according to reports by BBC News.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) said the expanded powers would improve the speed and effectiveness of investigations by providing real-time access to communications, contacts, and location data used by smuggling networks.
“This intelligence can significantly accelerate our ability to identify organisers, payment chains, and routes used by these criminal groups,” the agency noted.
Government Defends Tougher Enforcement
Border Security Minister Alex Norris defended the policy, describing it as a necessary response to the growing sophistication of human smuggling operations.
“We promised to restore order and control to our borders, which means taking on the people-smuggling networks behind this deadly trade,” Norris said. “These robust new laws give us the tools to intercept, disrupt and dismantle these vile gangs faster than ever before.”
The legislation also introduces new criminal offences aimed at supply chains supporting illegal crossings. Individuals found storing or supplying boat engines for unauthorised crossings could face prison sentences of up to 14 years, while those caught researching equipment or planning departure routes may face up to five years in jail.
Concerns Over Humanitarian Impact
Despite assurances from government officials that discretion will be applied, humanitarian organisations have raised concerns about the impact of the policy on vulnerable migrants.
The Refugee Council warned that mobile phones often serve as lifelines for migrants, allowing them to stay in contact with family members, legal advisers, and support services.
“Phones are not just communication tools; they are essential for safety, mental wellbeing, and access to help,” the organisation said, urging authorities to apply the powers proportionately.
Mike Tapp, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said devices may be returned depending on circumstances and the intelligence gathered.
“If people have devices that could hold intelligence, then we are right to be able to seize that,” he said. “But that doesn’t take away compassion.”
Record Crossings Drive Policy Shift
The move comes amid continued pressure on the UK asylum system. More than 41,000 migrants crossed the Channel in 2025, nearly 5,000 more than the previous year, according to government figures.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced further reforms aimed at deterring illegal crossings and speeding up deportations, while Martin Hewitt, who leads operational efforts against Channel smuggling, described the new enforcement powers as a “key moment” in expanding the government’s toolkit.
However, the policy has drawn criticism from opposition figures. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp described the measures as insufficient, arguing that stronger actions — including proposals to leave the European Convention on Human Rights — are required to curb illegal migration.
Broader Migration Context
The policy also intersects with long-standing migration trends. Between 2010 and 2024, the UK received over 22,600 asylum applications from Nigerian nationals alone, according to official asylum and resettlement data published in 2024.
As the UK government tightens border enforcement, the balance between security, intelligence gathering, and humanitarian protection is expected to remain a central point of debate — particularly as digital tools increasingly sit at the heart of migration control strategies.
