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British authorities have commenced the detention of migrants as part of preparations to relocate them to Rwanda within the next nine to 11 weeks, the government announced on Thursday, marking a pivotal development in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s immigration strategy.
Parliament approved a legislation in April, facilitating the relocation of asylum seekers to Rwanda if they entered Britain without authorization. Sunak aims for the inaugural flights to depart in July.
More than 7,500 migrants arrived in England via small boats from France this year and the government believes this policy will deter individuals from embarking on perilous Channel crossings. Sadly, five people lost their lives attempting the journey last week.
Opposition to the policy from human rights organizations and unions is expected, with anticipation of renewed legal challenges to halt the flights, particularly following the UK Supreme Court’s ruling last year deeming the policy unlawful.
Interior Minister James Cleverly remarked in a statement, “Our dedicated enforcement teams are working diligently to promptly apprehend those without lawful status so that we can expedite the departure of flights.”
A refugee charity, Care4Calais confirmed that detentions began on Monday, with many individuals reaching out to their helpline expressing concerns. Details regarding the selection criteria for the initial deportation flight and its timing remain undisclosed.
