Organised criminal networks are increasingly targeting England's picturesque but vulnerable South West coastline as a new route for smuggling migrants into the UK, police have revealed.
The rugged shores of Devon and Cornwall, traditionally associated with tourism and fishing villages, are now witnessing a sharp rise in small boat crossings as smuggling gangs adapt their tactics to evade heightened security measures in the English Channel.
Changing Tactics in People Smuggling
According to law enforcement officials, criminal enterprises are deliberately shifting their operations away from more heavily monitored areas like Kent and the Dover Strait. The vast, often remote coastline of the South West presents both opportunities and challenges - offering numerous landing spots but also posing significant dangers to those attempting the crossing.
"We're seeing a clear tactical shift by these organised crime groups," a senior police source confirmed. "They're exploiting the geography of the South West coast, knowing it's harder for us to monitor every cove and beach."
Dramatic Increase in Interceptions
Official figures show a concerning uptick in interceptions along the Devon and Cornwall coastline in recent months. While precise numbers remain classified for operational reasons, authorities confirm the trend represents a significant departure from traditional crossing patterns.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Coastguard services have been increasingly involved in rescue operations, often responding to vessels in distress that have attempted the longer, more dangerous crossing from northern France.
Why the South West is Vulnerable
- Extended coastline with numerous isolated landing spots
- Proximity to alternative departure points in France
- Reduced surveillance compared to Channel hotspots
- Complex maritime geography difficult to patrol comprehensively
Local fishermen and coastal residents have reported suspicious activity, with some describing unusual vessel movements during night hours. One Devon fisherman noted: "You see things that don't add up - small boats appearing where they shouldn't be, moving in ways that don't make sense for fishing or pleasure craft."
Police Response and Public Alert
Devon and Cornwall Police have launched Operation Seabird, enhancing coastal patrols and increasing collaboration with Border Force and the National Crime Agency. Authorities are urging coastal communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious maritime activity immediately.
"This isn't just a law enforcement issue - it's a community safety issue," a police spokesperson emphasised. "These crossings are incredibly dangerous, and we're concerned about both the criminality and the very real risk to human life."
The situation highlights the evolving nature of people smuggling operations and the constant cat-and-mouse game between authorities and criminal networks adapting to changing enforcement landscapes.
