25 Inflatable Boats Capable of Smuggling 1,700 Migrants Seized in Bulgaria

UK authorities intercept 25 boats designed to carry 1,700 migrants. Operation targets Channel smuggling networks.

October 6, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — London, United Kingdom — Authorities in Bulgaria have intercepted 25 inflatable boats capable of transporting up to 1,700 illegal migrants across the English Channel, according to a recent report.

The vessels were discovered in an air freight shipment and were intended for use by people-smuggling groups operating in the region. The National Crime Agency (NCA) and Border Force collaborated on the operation, which officials described as a major disruption to cross-Channel trafficking efforts.

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A senior UK border security official praised the seizure, calling it a significant setback for criminal gangs attempting to exploit the Channel route. The boats, along with engines and other equipment, were confiscated after being identified by intelligence teams from the NCA and Home Office.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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