Border Force staff face corruption probes in 2022
- A total of 55 Border Force officers were suspended last year due to corruption allegations.
- David Neal, the chief inspector of borders and immigration, highlighted the need for better working conditions to prevent insider risks.
- The Home Office is committed to upholding high standards and addressing unacceptable behavior within the Border Force.
In the past year, a significant number of Border Force officers have faced disciplinary actions due to corruption, with 55 officers suspended and 18 dismissed. This surge in corruption cases is attributed to staff dissatisfaction regarding pay and working conditions, which has raised concerns about the potential for insider threats within the organization. David Neal, the chief inspector of borders and immigration, has called for improvements in the Border Force's operational readiness to mitigate these risks. Notable cases include Kevin Smith, a Border Force officer who was sentenced to two years in prison for misconduct after allowing a drug-laden vehicle to pass through customs, and Gareth Glynn Davies, who received a nearly six-year sentence for drug supply offenses. The Home Office has emphasized its commitment to maintaining high standards within the Border Force and has pledged to address any unacceptable behavior swiftly.