Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has declared that "nowhere is safe" after illegal migrants landed in his Clacton constituency, prompting a full investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA).
Six people were dropped off by boat in Holland-on-Sea, near Clacton, on Wednesday morning, July 1, 2026. Four individuals have been arrested, including three suspected of facilitating illegal immigration and the boat's pilot.
Farage's response on social media
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Farage wrote: "Illegal migrants yesterday landed at Holland-on-Sea, in the Clacton constituency. The National Crime Agency has launched a full investigation. Nowhere is safe. These men must be kept under detention and deported. The invasion must be stopped."
The post quickly garnered attention, with supporters echoing his call for stronger border controls.
NCA investigation details
In a statement, the NCA said: "On the morning of Wednesday 1 July, National Crime Agency officers were alerted by Essex Police to an incident in Holland-on-Sea, near Clacton, after a vessel was reportedly seen to drop a number of people off at the shoreline."
"Three men who were suspected of being at the scene to meet the party were arrested by Essex Police on suspicion of facilitating illegal immigration. A fourth man, the boat's pilot, was also subsequently arrested at sea by Border Force officers. The operation was supported by HM Coastguard."
All four suspects remain in custody and are being questioned by NCA investigators. The six individuals on the boat have been detained for immigration offences and are being processed by Immigration Enforcement.
Ongoing operation
The NCA confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and led by its officers. The incident has reignited debate over border security and illegal migration, with Farage using the event to criticise government policies.
