The Home Office has initiated the disclosure of data regarding the prevention of migrants from departing France as a fresh wave of arrivals reaches Dover today. Changes to the Home Office website implemented last week now feature new sections titled ‘Migrants prevented’ and ‘Events prevented,’ showcasing collaborative efforts between British and French authorities to address illegal immigration.

According to the latest data, 98 migrants arrived on small boats yesterday, while 71 migrants in three small boats were intercepted and prevented from leaving France. This data, believed to be sourced directly from French Police, highlights the ongoing challenges faced in controlling irregular migration across the Channel.

Images captured in Dover today depict groups of individuals, including young children, disembarking from Border Force vessels. The number of migrants making the perilous journey across the Channel has surpassed 8,500 this year alone, marking a significant increase compared to the same period last year. Smugglers are taking advantage of relatively calm weather conditions to facilitate more landings, contributing to the rise in arrivals.

Last year saw a total of 29,437 migrants arriving in the UK, representing a 36% decrease from the record 45,774 arrivals in 2022. However, the treacherous nature of these crossings was underscored by recent tragedies, including the death of seven-year-old Sara, who was trampled to death or suffocated in a dinghy that capsized off the coast of Wimereux, near Boulogne-sur-Mer.

Sara’s funeral, held in France, drew heartfelt tributes from her family, who described her as “the light in our home” and “our source of laughter.” Her father, Ahmed, emphasized their desire for a better life, reflecting the aspirations of many migrants seeking refuge in the UK.

In response to the escalating situation, the Home Office has undertaken enforcement actions across the UK, including in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, to detain and remove illegal migrants. Efforts to establish flights to deport migrants to Rwanda by July have been intensified following the enactment of the Safety of Rwanda Act.

A Home Office spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to collaborating with French authorities and international partners to address the root causes of irregular migration, emphasizing the importance of saving lives and preventing further tragedies at sea.