Rwanda Deportations: Home Office Prepares for Weeks of Detentions Ahead of First Flights

The Home Office has announced that migrants will begin being detained within weeks in the UK for eventual transfer to Rwanda.

The detentions come as the final phase of implementing the controversial policy, following reports that transfers would start on Monday.

Glasgow-based human rights lawyer Aamer Anwar expects protests in response, referencing past protests in Glasgow where hundreds blocked an immigration van to prevent asylum seeker removals.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced the first flight to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing within the next 10 to 12 weeks.

The Home Office plans to detain people during preparations, but specifics are not confirmed.

Reports suggest asylum seekers will be held during routine meetings at immigration offices and nationwide pickups leading to detention centers.

The goal is to deter small boat Channel crossings.

On Saturday, 359 migrants were found attempting the dangerous crossing into the UK, as per Home Office data.

In response to this report, Sonya Sceats, CEO of Freedom from Torture, expressed concern to the BBC, stating that this government action would traumatize refugees who have already fled persecution and seek safety and a new life in the UK.