The UK Home Office has introduced sweeping new powers allowing authorities to seize mobile phones and SIM cards from migrants who enter the UK illegally, even without making arrests.
The move represents a major escalation in efforts to curb dangerous small boat crossings across the English Channel.
According to the Home Office, the new measures take effect on Monday at the Manston processing centre in Kent. Officials say the powers are designed to gather critical intelligence on human smuggling gangs organising the crossings.
As reported by BBC News, new technology at the centre will allow officers to download data directly from seized devices, helping investigators trace routes, contacts, and organisers behind the operations.
🔍 What the New Powers Allow:
• 📱 Seizure of phones and SIM cards without arrest
• đź‘• Requests for migrants to remove outer clothing to reveal hidden devices
• đź‘„ In some cases, officials may check inside mouths for concealed SIM cards
• đź’» On-site data extraction to support intelligence gathering
The National Crime Agency said the intelligence obtained could significantly speed up investigations and help dismantle major smuggling networks operating across Europe.
UK authorities insist the measures are necessary to disrupt criminal gangs and prevent further loss of life in Channel crossings, though critics are already raising concerns about privacy and human rights implications.
đź“Ś The policy is expected to spark intense debate as implementation begins.
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