The United Kingdom has introduced sweeping new border enforcement powers allowing officials to seize mobile phones and SIM cards from migrants entering the country illegally, a move the government says is aimed at dismantling human smuggling networks responsible for dangerous Channel crossings.
The new measures, which do not require an arrest, took effect on Monday at the Manston processing centre in Kent, according to the UK Home Office.
The policy marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts to curb irregular migration, particularly the use of small boats to cross the English Channel.
Under the new rules, border officials are empowered to seize electronic devices believed to contain intelligence linked to smuggling operations.
According to BBC News, technology at the Manston facility enables officers to download data directly from confiscated devices to support investigations into organised criminal gangs.
Officials may also ask migrants to remove outer clothing to reveal concealed devices, while further checks may be carried out where there is suspicion that SIM cards or small devices are being hidden.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) said the intelligence gathered could significantly accelerate investigations and help identify and dismantle key smuggling networks.
Defending the policy, Border Security Minister Alex Norris said the government was acting decisively to confront criminal groups profiting from irregular migration.
“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 new laws give us powerful tools to intercept, disrupt and dismantle these vile gangs faster than ever before and cut off their supply chains.”
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The legislation also introduces new criminal offences targeting logistics linked to illegal crossings. Individuals found storing or supplying boat engines for unlawful journeys could face up to 14 years in prison, while those researching boat equipment or planning departure routes may receive sentences of up to five years.
Despite the tougher stance, ministers insisted the measures would be applied with discretion. Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, said seized devices may be returned depending on individual circumstances and the intelligence value obtained.
“If people have devices that could hold intelligence, then we are right to be able to seize that,” Tapp said. “But that doesn’t take away compassion.”
Migration and security experts say the policy reflects a growing shift toward intelligence-led border enforcement. A UK-based migration policy analyst noted that mobile phones are often central to smuggling operations.
“Phones contain contact networks, payment trails and route planning information. From a law enforcement perspective, this is a potentially valuable tool,” the analyst said.
However, humanitarian organisations have raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable migrants. The Refugee Council warned that mobile phones often serve as a critical lifeline, enabling migrants to remain in contact with family members, legal advisers and support organisations.
“Phones are not a luxury for many migrants—they are essential for safety and communication,” the group said, urging authorities to apply the powers proportionately and humanely.
The move comes amid record levels of Channel crossings, with more than 41,000 migrants arriving in the UK in 2025, nearly 5,000 more than the previous year, according to official figures.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has also announced further reforms to the asylum system, aimed at deterring irregular crossings and speeding up deportations.
Meanwhile, Martin Hewitt, who oversees operations against Channel smuggling, described the introduction of the new powers as a “key moment” in expanding the government’s enforcement toolkit.
Opposition politicians criticised the policy. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp described the measures as “cosmetic tweaks,” arguing that tougher actions—such as withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights—are necessary to stem the rising number of crossings.
In a broader migration context, UK asylum data released in April 2025 showed that the country received 22,619 asylum applications from Nigerian nationals between 2010 and 2024, highlighting the continued pressure on the UK asylum system.