People smugglers tighten security as PM sends border spies

Smuggling gangs have introduced extra security for migrants crossing the Channel, in response to new plans for a covert operation.

Britain’s new border commander, former Scotland Yard chief Martin Hewitt, has been appointed by Sir Keir Starmer with the task of cracking down on gangs smuggling migrants into Britain. He will reportedly use undercover officers.

However, people smugglers have stepped up security checks on the migrants amid threats of officers being deployed to camps around Calais.

Criminal leaders fear imminent arrest as a result of the repression and are therefore trying to ‘stay one step ahead’ with a ‘three-authentication system’.

A Public Prosecution Service source said: “Security is being stepped up. There will be extra checks around identification, passports and money transfers. Those who bring migrants to the border crossings will have to account for who they take.

“Security will be tighter. No one wants to be responsible for ruining and exposing the gang to the law, their lives would not be worth living. A prison sentence would be the least of their worries.

“We are dealing with the most ruthless criminals in the world who have no qualms about sending more than 50 people onto boats that are falling apart in the world’s busiest shipping lane. This is a serious matter for them and any threat must be countered.”

Sir Keir has insisted his plan to tackle gangs at source will remain in place, despite criticism over the scrapping of the conservative Rwanda plan.

He promised that Mr Hewitt would “lead a new era of international enforcement to dismantle these networks, protect our shores and restore order to the asylum system”.

The source added: “The three layers are a new rule.

“Extra passport checks, guarantees and a good conversation in advance.

“The smugglers are well aware that law enforcement is taking a tough stance.”

Alp Mehmet, chair of Migration Watch UK, said: “This shows that the government’s plan has failed. This is organised crime on a massive global scale, spanning continents.

“It won’t be solved with slogans. The gangs are one step ahead.

“They are too established. It is like drug dealing, once you get rid of one, there are many more waiting.”

More than 10,000 migrants have crossed the border since Labour won the election.