PSNI to be given powers to seize electronic devices to combat immigration crime

Under the proposed Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill currently progressing through Parliament authorities will have new tools to combat criminal gangs.
Speaking on the legislation, Minister of State at the Home Office, Lord David Hanson, described it as a "turbocharge" to current enforcement capabilities.
'Our Borders Bill will turbocharge efforts to combat irregular migration and organised immigration crime,' he said.
'It will equip law enforcement across the UK with new tools to better identify, disrupt and dismantle the criminal networks behind this vile trade.'
Among the key measures is the expansion of powers to seize electronic devices such as mobile phones believed to contain intelligence on people-smuggling operations.
These powers will be extended to police forces across the UK, including the PSNI, and are inspired by counterterrorism protocols.
Lord Hanson highlighted that the enhanced authority will 'provide critical insights into the operations of smuggling gangs'.
'This change will deliver greater intelligence on these people smuggling gangs, enhancing investigations and strengthening the collective response to bring criminals to justice,' he added.
The Bill draws directly from counterterrorism strategies, allowing earlier interventions in smuggling networks.
It includes provisions to criminalise the supply or possession of materials suspected to be used in illegal crossings, such as parts for small boats, bringing immigration enforcement more in line with anti-terror practices.
The proposed powers come in response to a recent report from His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), which welcomed the potential for electronic device seizures to yield valuable information on criminal activity.
However, officials have stressed that any device seizure, retention, or data extraction will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and subject to strict oversight and safeguards.
The measures are part of the Government's broader 'Plan for Change' strategy, which aims to restore order to the UK's asylum and immigration systems. Law enforcement agencies are said to be working 'round the clock' to dismantle smuggling operations.
Last month, a major Home Office operation in Northern Ireland targeting people-smuggling networks led to more than 30 arrests and the seizure of assets worth £160,000.
Simultaneously, the newly formed Border Security Command is working to 'deepen international collaboration in the fight against irregular migration'.
The Government's efforts have also been underpinned by a substantial financial commitment.
On June 11, the Chancellor announced up to £280m per year in funding for the Border Security Command.
The Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill is scheduled to enter Committee Stage in the House of Lords next week.

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