Migrants doubt UK’s efforts to stop smuggling gangs

In recent discussions, migrants have voiced their doubts regarding the UK government's ability to effectively tackle smuggling gangs responsible for illegal crossings. Many of these individuals, including Hassan and Mohammed from Kurdistan, have firsthand experience with the smuggling networks that operate openly in their home countries. They describe a system where smugglers rely on word-of-mouth recommendations, making it difficult for authorities to eliminate these operations entirely. The financial burden of reaching the UK can be substantial, with some migrants paying around £3,000 to smugglers after being denied asylum in other European nations. This desperation drives many to seek alternative routes, often leading them to Calais, where they can easily find individuals willing to facilitate their journey across the Channel. While some migrants believe that a crackdown on smuggling operations could lead to a decrease in crossings, they remain skeptical about the long-term effectiveness of such measures. They argue that as long as there is demand for passage to the UK, new smugglers will inevitably emerge to take the place of those arrested. Ultimately, the migrants' perspective highlights the complexities of illegal migration and the challenges faced by governments in addressing the issue. The allure of a better life in the UK continues to drive individuals to risk their safety in pursuit of their dreams, regardless of the government's efforts to combat smuggling.