People smuggling gangs offer discounts to immigrants who record their crossing and post it on TikTok
People smuggling gangs controlling illegal immigration to the UK have found a key ally in social media to expand their business. They are now offering discounts to immigrants crossing the English Channel if they record their journey and post it on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, or Facebook to attract more people.
This information was revealed by Paul Brisley from the National Crime Agency (NCA), which has been fighting against this digital strategy used by the gangs. The agency has been removing posts and accounts that promote illegal crossings in an attempt to curb the migratory influx. In 2024, the NCA managed to eliminate more than 8,000 accounts dedicated to this purpose, a significant increase from the 5,600 accounts removed in 2023. It is estimated that these represented almost half of all accounts advertising people smuggling services.
So far this year, 4,392 people have crossed the English Channel in 80 boats and have been intercepted by the UK Border Force. A migrant recently died after falling into the water when an inflatable boat was left drifting off the French coast. However, none of this seems to deter those operating this multimillion-dollar business, which continues to evolve with new recruitment tactics.
Many of the immigrants trying to cross have made contact with traffickers through social media. On TikTok, videos are circulating showing boats with the British flag and emojis pointing to England, accompanied by messages of supposed welcome.
Offers and Discounts to Promote Illegal Immigration
The price to cross the Channel in a boat ranges from £1,500 to £6,000 (€1,800 to €7,000), but discounts ranging from £1,000 to £2,000 (€1,200 to €2,400) are now being offered to those who successfully record their trip and share it on social media. “The ads show photographs of immigrants in a boat, using their own videos as a way to endorse the service,” explains Brisley.
But they are not only promoting illegal journeys: social media ads also offer fake documents and fraudulent assistance with visa applications. “Criminals offer people smuggling services, fake document provision, and fraudulent help with visa applications,” he adds.
Alp Mehmet, president of Migration Watch UK, states that while it is positive that action is being taken against these social media channels, the fact that traffickers offer discounts for recording the crossings demonstrates the level of sophistication and professionalism of the business. “It is concerning that these gangs are promoting their services with marketing strategies worthy of a company, but it is not surprising: it is a ruthless business that generates millions each year,” he warns.
The videos are often edited with cheerful music and show an idyllic version of life in the UK, hiding the dangers of the journey and the reality immigrants face when they arrive.
