Europe, UK (Commonwealth Union) – Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced the initial steps towards creating a new UK Border Security Command (BSC). This initiative aims to bolster the nation’s border security and dismantle the criminal smuggling gangs profiting from small boat crossings.
A rapid recruitment process will begin to find an exceptional leader experienced in complex and challenging environments, such as senior roles in policing, intelligence, or the military. The successful candidate is expected to assume their position in the weeks ahead.
The Border Security Commander, who will report directly to the Home Secretary, will provide strategic direction and coordinate efforts across multiple agencies, including the National Crime Agency (NCA), intelligence agencies, police, Immigration Enforcement, and Border Force. This coordination aims to enhance border protection and target smuggling gangs responsible for facilitating small boat crossings.
Border security was divisive issue during the election with various parties having a variety of opinions on the issue and possible solutions.
Under the Home Secretary’s directive, a core team within the Home Office is defining the scope, governance, and strategic direction for the new command. Early legislation is being drafted to introduce counter-terrorism-like powers and stronger measures to combat organized immigration crime.
Additionally, she has commissioned a tailored investigation by the department and the NCA into the latest routes, methods, and tactics used by people smuggling gangs across Europe. This investigation will inform a significant law enforcement effort in the coming months.
The BSC will utilize substantial additional resources, with efforts to recruit more investigators, experts, and analysts to combat organized immigration crime beginning on Monday. A significant number of these personnel will be stationed across Europe, collaborating with Europol and European police forces to disrupt the operations of criminal smuggling gangs and ensure those benefiting from people smuggling are brought to justice.
“Work is underway to bring in a Border Security Commander to lead this work – and we will begin recruitment on additional capacity in the National Crime Agency immediately,” added Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper.
