Three Albanians, suspected of migrant smuggling, were arrested after twenty people were found hiding on a luxury yacht heading from Brest, France, to the southern coast of Britain.
The vessel was spotted on Sunday off the English Channel, during its journey to Newquay, and after a check by Border Guard Authorities, 20 people, 19 men and one woman, were found hiding below deck. All are believed to be Albanian nationals.
Those arrested are being held pending their deportation from the United Kingdom.
Two more Albanians were arrested on the same charge. One of them was acquitted of criminal charges but was arrested for being in the UK illegally.
At the same time, according to the latest data from the British government, on April 13, no migrant crossings were recorded in small boats, including those found on the yacht.
However, migrant arrivals by small boats have set a record this year. more Than 8,000 people have reached british shores in the first four months Of 2025, a 46% increase on the same period last year.
"People trafficking rings have no interest in the safety of the vulnerable people they exploit, as long as they get paid. We will not stop until we dismantle these networks and bring those responsible to justice," according to the British Home Secretary.
