A growing number of migrants have arrived in the UK after making the dangerous journey across the English Channel.
On Tuesday, individuals were seen being brought ashore in Dover by an RNLI lifeboat, wearing life jackets, blankets and protective covers, amid misty weather conditions. Others were transported by a Border Force vessel.
According to the latest figures from the Home Office, 119 migrants crossed the Channel in two small boats on Monday.
This brings the provisional total for 2025 to 8,183 people – a significant 31% rise compared to the same period in 2024, when 6,265 individuals had crossed. Compared to 2023, when the number stood at 4,899, this year’s figure represents a 67% increase.
The surge in arrivals follows a new record set on Saturday for Channel crossings within the first four months of the year.
On that day alone, 656 people made the journey, pushing the yearly total to 8,064. This surpasses the previous January-to-April record of 7,567 in 2024.
In response to the escalating figures, the Home Office reaffirmed its commitment to tackling illegal migration and people-smuggling operations.
Officials stated that criminal gangs continue to exploit vulnerable individuals for profit, showing little regard for their safety or lives.
The government has pledged to intensify efforts to disrupt and dismantle these criminal networks, ensuring that those responsible face justice.
The rise in crossings underscores the ongoing challenge the UK faces in securing its borders and managing unauthorised migration.
