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 Wednesday, 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.
The UK’s interior ministry on Wednesday released photographs depicting individuals detained by immigration enforcement officials, highlighting the swift implementation of these measures.
Interior Minister James Cleverly remarked in a Wednesday 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.
Britain has already initiated its first asylum seeker relocation to Rwanda under a voluntary program, separate from the deportation policy, according to The Sun Newspaper.
The Associate Director of Advocacy at Freedom from Torture, Natasha Tsangarides, emphasized the widespread fear among migrants. She suggested that fears of detention and relocation to Rwanda might lead some individuals to evade authorities and cut off ties with support networks.
Melissa Enoch
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