Official announcements from the UK Foreign Office

UK to Implement World-First Sanctions Regime With Asset Freezes and Travel Bans on People Smugglers

Jan 9, 2025, 08:20 AM

The UK government has announced plans to introduce a new sanctions regime, described as a world-first, aimed at crippling people smuggling networks. This initiative will target the finances of individuals and entities involved in facilitating illegal migration across the English Channel. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the regime will help prevent, combat, deter, and disrupt irregular migration into the UK. The sanctions will include asset freezes and travel bans for those suspected of involvement in people smuggling. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the government's commitment to dismantling crime gangs and securing UK borders by targeting illicit finance rings. The legislation for this new regime is expected to come into force within the year.