A growing number of migrants are attempting to cross the English Channel from Belgian shores, raising concerns about a shift in smuggling operations. This change comes as smugglers seek to circumvent increased patrols along the French coastline.

New Route Emerges

Investigations have revealed a pattern of migrants utilizing public transportation, specifically the number 20 bus service, to travel from refugee camps in France – including those formerly known as the ‘Jungle’ – to Belgian coastal towns like De Panne. Smuggling networks then collect them for launches towards Dover.

Record Crossings from Belgium

Last Saturday saw an unprecedented five boats depart from three Belgian beaches, carrying over 200 individuals. This constituted nearly half of the 602 migrants brought into Dover by Border Force on that day, marking a significant change from the traditionally French-focused crossings.

Belgian Concerns and Calls for Action

Belgian officials are increasingly concerned about the escalating situation. Carl Decaluwe, the governor of West Flanders, stated he has not witnessed such activity in his fifteen years in office. Since January, 29 migrant boats, potentially carrying up to 80 people each, have been launched from the region.

Border Closure Request

Governor Decaluwe has urgently called for a temporary closure of the France-Belgium border to disrupt migrant movement and curtail smuggling operations. Belgian police are proactively dismantling makeshift smuggler camps on the dunes to prevent them from becoming large-scale settlements.

Factors Driving the Shift

Intelligence suggests most migrants initially reside in French camps, moving to Belgium the night before their attempted crossing. The shorter distance from De Panne to Dover – approximately 56 miles – compared to the over 20-mile crossing from Calais is also believed to be a factor.

UK-France Agreement Questioned

This escalation coincides with the renewal of a three-year agreement between the UK and France, with Britain providing £662 million for French beach patrols. However, the agreement is facing criticism, particularly from Belgium.

Effectiveness of the Deal

Governor Decaluwe questions the agreement’s effectiveness, arguing that Britain receives little tangible benefit despite the substantial financial investment. He points to continued record crossings as evidence of its shortcomings. The first arrivals since the renewal were recorded yesterday, further fueling the debate.

Officials are bracing for a renewed surge in activity as weather conditions improve. A meeting was held on Tuesday to coordinate a response and prepare for the anticipated influx, focusing on preventing permanent migrant camps and disrupting smuggling operations.