Gangs who illegally smuggle people to UK running low on small boats, investigation finds | BBC News

A small "taxi boat" carrying around 50 migrants launched from the Belgian border, heading towards the UK. Migrants, mostly from Afghanistan, entered the English Channel's shallow waters despite the dangers, having paid 1,500-2,000 euros each. Once in the water, French police do not intervene due to safety concerns, only preventing launches closer to land. The boat returned multiple times, collecting more passengers from different parts of the beach. After three hours and five collections, 82 people departed, all successfully reaching the UK. Smugglers are adapting to increased interceptions and fewer boats, forcing rival gangs to cooperate and use larger vessels. Despite a significant drop in crossings due to stronger policing, smugglers' frustration is evident. A BBC crew was attacked while filming at a migrant camp near Dunkirk, highlighting the desperation and criminal activity. The motivation to reach the UK illegally remains strong, fueling the people-smuggling trade.