The head of the National Crime Agency (NCA) in the UK, Graeme Biggar, has called for import restrictions on small boat motors to combat people smuggling.
He emphasized that cheap outboard motors used on makeshift vessels are often made in China and purchased by criminal gangs in Europe. Implementing import measures on these motors in the UK and across Europe could help reduce illegal migration flows by increasing the cost and difficulty of smuggling operations.
Biggar suggested that disrupting the supply of engines and boats might be more effective than solely targeting those involved in smuggling. The NCA has been collaborating with law enforcement agencies from various countries to intercept components used in smuggling operations.
Efforts have included seizing boats, outboard motors, and life jackets. Biggar also highlighted the challenges posed by international crime networks and their use of technology to conduct criminal activities across borders.
He called for legal changes to prevent criminals from creating firearms using 3D printers, which have become increasingly sophisticated.