Overview
- A 13‑metre inflatable carrying a confirmed 165 people made the crossing on Thursday, breaking the single‑boat record for Channel arrivals.
- The National Crime Agency says a 19‑year‑old, Chan Mathok Atak, has been charged with endangering others for allegedly piloting the vessel and was remanded in custody.
- Home Office data show 366 arrivals across three boats on the same day and about 13,007 people recorded this year, a year‑on‑year decline of roughly 45 percent so far.
- The NCA seized about 50 boats and outboard engines at the Port of Felixstowe in an operation that officials say disrupted equipment destined for smugglers.
- Press reports allege limited evidence that Iran‑linked networks have used Channel routes to move operatives, a claim prompting security checks and calls for further investigation while charities warn larger boats make crossings more dangerous and urge safe routes.