Suspected people smugglers will face travel bans, social media blackouts and restrictions on phone usage under tough new laws to dismantle organised immigration crime networks under plans released today by the Government
The plans form part of the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill
Currently, says the Government, securing a Serious Crime Prevention Order imposed on suspects, including people smugglers, can be a complex and lengthy process, restricting the use of this powerful tool.
Interim Orders will go further, speeding up the process for placing restrictions on people under investigation to prevent, deter and disrupt serious and organised crime, including people smuggling.
These new Interim Orders will allow the National Crime Agency (NCA), the police and other law enforcement agencies to apply directly to the High Court to impose immediate restrictions while a full Order is considered.
Penalties could include, Travel restrictions, a ban on laptop or mobile phone usage and on accessing social media networks, including via a third party as well as Restrictions on whom someone can associate with and on devices and communications with certain individuals
Restrictions could also be on their finances, helping to prevent criminal proceeds from going under the radar.
Breaching an Interim Order could lead to up to five years in prison.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:
“Dangerous criminal people-smugglers are profiting from undermining our border security and putting lives at risk. They cannot be allowed to get away with it.
“Stronger international collaboration has already led to important arrests and action against dangerous gangs over the last few months. We will give law enforcement stronger powers they need to pursue and stop more of these vile gang networks.
“Border security is one of the foundations of this government’s Plan for Change, including making people better off, delivering safer streets and strengthening our NHS, and we will do everything in our power to deliver for working people.”
