Channel smuggling gangs turn to 'mega-dinghies' as small boat supply drops

September 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM2 min

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People smuggling gangs operating on France's northern coast are shifting to larger 'mega-dinghies' as a crackdown limits the supply of small boats, a BBC investigation has found. The gangs are now cooperating across rival groups to load more migrants onto fewer vessels, with prices per crossing rising to €2,000. The development comes as the UK and France announce measures to increase police presence on the French coast.

Key Facts

On 4 August, 170 people had to be rescued after their dinghy caught fire in the middle of the Channel.
French officers claim they are now intercepting two-thirds of small boats before they can reach the coast.
Gangs are quoting up to €2,000 (£1,700) per person for a crossing, up from around €1,300 a year ago.
The BBC observed a 'taxi boat' that had departed from Belgium to pick up migrants on Gravelines beach.

New Smuggling Tactics

A drop in small boats illegally reaching the UK is forcing people smuggling gangs to adopt new tactics, a BBC investigation has found. There are claims of more 'mega-dinghies' being prepared, of the type seen arriving on UK shores in recent weeks. Once rival criminal groups are now having to work together by loading more migrants on fewer, larger vessels. Gang members have told BBC sources that others are being prepared, to the concern of emergency teams on both sides of the Channel.

Coastal Interceptions and Prices

French officers claim they are now intercepting two-thirds of small boats before they can reach the coast. That means fewer crossing opportunities and a higher price for those hoping to make the journey. Today, the gangs are quoting up to €2,000 (£1,700) per person, compared with around €1,300 just a year ago. Passengers now have to pay in cash to ensure commitment.

Gravelines Beach Launch

During one early low tide on Gravelines beach, the BBC saw the only small boat to launch that day. At 09:30, a dozen or so migrants emerged from the sand dunes wearing distinctive orange life jackets purchased from a local sports shop. As they waded into the calm shallows, their 'taxi boat' came into view — a small boat that had departed from further along the coastline to avoid detection. This one had left from Belgium, and the group did not rush because the boat was already in the water. French police argue they are prevented from intervening at this point over fears of people drowning.