UK to impose sanctions on people smuggling networks

The UK government has announced new sanctions targeting people smuggling networks, aiming to disrupt the financial operations of those profiting from illegal migration.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated the measures would involve freezing assets, bank accounts, and imposing travel bans on offenders.

The sanctions are part of a broader government strategy to combat illegal migration and could also target supply chains aiding smuggling operations. Lammy explained, "We know who those companies are; we can go after those value chains and supply chains." Officials noted that many smugglers operate informally, making enforcement challenging.

Speaking on Thursday, Lammy described the new sanctions as a key element of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office's (FCDO) role in addressing irregular migration. He called for "hardheaded diplomacy" and international cooperation to disrupt smuggling networks. The measures, he said, aim to "prevent, combat, deter and disrupt" illegal migration into the UK.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer backed the move, promising to "hit [the gangs] where it hurts" by cutting off the illicit finances fuelling their operations. The government claims these sanctions are the first globally to specifically target people smuggling networks.

Legislation enabling these sanctions will be developed in collaboration with legal experts, law enforcement, and the Home Office. This follows other recent measures, including travel bans, phone restrictions, and social media blackouts for suspected smugglers.

The announcement comes amid rising Channel crossings, with 36,816 people detected in 2024, up from 29,437 in 2023. Lammy vowed to use "every tool at our disposal to restore control to our borders."

Shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel criticised the government, arguing that Labour’s policies lack credibility on tackling people smuggling.

In his speech, Lammy also discussed the need for increased defence spending and deeper global cooperation, highlighting the challenges posed by a changing geopolitical landscape.