Nearly 1,000 officers deployed on French coast to tackle small boat crossings

Almost 1,000 law enforcement, intelligence and military personnel have been deployed along the French coast as part of efforts to prevent small boats carrying migrants from crossing the English Channel.

The Home Office said the increased deployment brings together officers from different agencies, including border enforcement, intelligence services and military personnel, to disrupt people-smuggling networks and prevent dangerous Channel crossings.

The operation aims to target criminal gangs responsible for organising small boat journeys, while improving surveillance and information sharing between UK and French authorities.

Small boat crossings across the Channel have remained a major challenge for both countries, with thousands of people attempting the journey each year despite increased patrols and enforcement measures.

Officials have warned that the crossings are extremely dangerous, with migrants often travelling in overcrowded and unsuitable boats that can put lives at risk due to strong currents, changing weather conditions and heavy shipping traffic.

The UK government said cooperation with France remains a key part of its border security strategy, with officers working to identify and disrupt organised crime groups involved in human trafficking.

The deployment follows continued pressure on authorities to reduce illegal migration and strengthen border controls, while ensuring emergency services can respond quickly to incidents at sea.

The Home Office said the expanded operation demonstrates the commitment of UK and French authorities to tackling organised immigration crime and making Channel crossings harder for people-smuggling gangs.