France has launched two specialist enforcement units along its northern coastline as part of a strengthened UK-France strategy to curb illegal Channel crossings and disrupt people-smuggling networks.
The new teams, including a dedicated riot unit and the 75-officer Compagnie de Marche, will work alongside surveillance technology to prevent boat launches, seize equipment and target migrant movements before they reach the water.
The initiative forms part of a £500 million bilateral agreement that will expand enforcement resources by 40 percent, while coordinated operations involving British, French and German authorities have already resulted in the seizure of dozens of boats and engines, preventing more than 2,000 attempted crossings.
The move comes as UK authorities continue prosecuting small-boat pilots and report more than 70,000 illegal migrants removed since 2024.
