Warning to Illegal Migrants: Slavery Awaits in UK

New Campaign Targets Illegal Migrants

Illegal migrants are being warned they face slavery if they come to Britain in small boats in a new advertising campaign. Videos featuring testimony from victims of people smuggling gangs will be released in Albania over the next few weeks. These digital ads aim to bust the myths peddled by criminal gangs and deter prospective migrants from making the dangerous journey.

Testimonies of Exploitation

Testimony from one migrant, whose face is obscured, reveals: "I was promised a well-paid job. Instead, I was a slave." Another migrant shares: "I owe a lot of money for the journey. They won't say how long I need to work for or how much I owe." The Home Office messaging warns viewers about the risks of trying to enter the UK illegally.

Efforts to Disrupt Criminal Gangs

Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt emphasized that the campaign aims to break the business model of criminal gangs and protect people from exploitation. The close collaboration with international partners like Albania has led to a steady drumbeat of return flights for foreign national offenders.

Securing Borders and Bringing Perpetrators to Justice

Mr. Hewitt stated, "This campaign helps to secure our borders as part of the Government's Plan for Change. By working closely with international partners, we are targeting criminal gangs, disrupting their operations, and bringing perpetrators to justice." The efforts come as more than 760 people crossed the Channel last week, with ongoing rescue operations taking place.