New powers to seize migrant phones and SIM cards to tackle small boat crossings
Border authorities granted enhanced tools to disrupt smuggling networks
Last updated 5th Jan 2026
Border authorities have been granted new powers to seize mobile phones and SIM cards from migrants arriving via small boat crossings.
The initiative, aimed at disrupting smuggling networks, began on Monday as part of the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Act.
These new tools allow officers at sites like the Manston processing centre in Kent to confiscate electronic devices without the need for an arrest.
By downloading information from these devices, investigators hope to gather critical intelligence on people-smuggling operations.
Border security minister Alex Norris said, “We promised to restore order and control to our borders, which means tackling the people smuggling networks behind this deadly trade. These robust new laws will help disrupt these networks faster and prevent harm to those crossing the Channel.”
Rising Channel crossings
Last year, 41,472 migrants crossed the English Channel to the UK—the second-highest annual figure on record and a 13% increase from 2024.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the latest reforms as "the most significant changes to our asylum system in modern times."
In addition to these operational measures, new laws have introduced severe penalties for those enabling illegal crossings. Provisions include:
Up to 14 years in prison for storing or supplying boat engines used in smuggling operations
Up to 5 years in prison for downloading maps or researching routes for small boat crossings
The Government aims to strengthen deterrents while accelerating deportations for migrants seeking to enter the UK unlawfully.
Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt welcomed the added powers, calling them a "key moment" for combating smuggling gangs.
Mr Hewitt said his unit has already carried out over 4,000 disruptions against smuggling networks, including seizing cash and convicting ringleaders, and the new resources mark a step forward against illegal activity.
However, Shadow home secretary Chris Philp argued the new powers are only “minor tweaks” that fail to address the issue meaningfully. “Seizing phones may help at the margins, but this won’t fix the small boats crisis, which remains out of control,” Philp said.
Philp advocated leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) entirely, insisting it would provide a far more effective solution to border control and asylum system reform.