STORY
The UK is sending three additional sniffer dogs to Bulgaria as part of efforts to disrupt organised migration crime before it reaches the Channel. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said the dogs would help strengthen border security and detect equipment used by criminal networks.
The Government said the deployment forms part of a whole-route approach to stopping small boats, including cooperation with European partners and the National Crime Agency. More than 1,000 boats and engines have been seized since early 2023 through joint work with countries including Bulgaria, Belgium, France and Germany.
The announcement follows recent talks in Moldova where Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper secured agreement from European partners on reforms linked to migration cases. Ministers said the UK’s international work is designed to break criminal supply chains and reduce the profits made by organised gangs.