Home secretary says undetected migrant landings 'unacceptable'

An urgent review has been ordered by the home secretary after two migrant boats arrived on beaches in Kent without being intercepted at sea.

Shabana Mahmood told Border Security Command to carry out the review after vessels came ashore at Samphire Hoe, between Dover and Folkestone, on Tuesday, and near Folkestone on Monday.

Twenty-one people were detained on Tuesday after the arrival at Samphire Hoe.

Five people were also detained on Monday after the uncontrolled landing near Folkestone, the first undetected landing for a year. The Home Office has not said whether more people are being sought.

A government spokesperson said: "Border Security Command officers alongside Kent Police have been responding to an incident in Dover.

"Twenty-one individuals have already been detained under a swift enforcement response.

"There is a thorough investigation ongoing and it would be inappropriate to comment further."

Officials said those who had been detained had been taken to Western Jet Foil for processing.

Migrants crossing the Channel are usually brought to shore by Border Security Command or RNLI boats.

Before Monday, no small boats had been officially recorded as arriving in the UK without an escort since 6 September 2025.

Figures show that 17,480 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel by boat so far this year, including 5,011 since Andy Burnham became prime minister.

The total so far for 2026 is down 46% compared with the same point last year.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, external, X, external, and on Instagram, external and listen to BBC Radio Kent on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk, external or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.