Gravelines: A drop in small boats illegally reaching the UK is forcing people smuggling gangs to adopt new tactics, a BBC investigation has found. Claims have surfaced about more "mega-dinghies" being prepared, similar to those seen on UK shores in recent weeks. A recent image depicted a 15-metre long boat carrying a record 230 migrants towards the UK, drawing condemnation from newspapers and politicians alike. Ministers have been accused of "losing control" of illegal Channel crossings, while French police face criticism for not intervening.

According to BBC, people smugglers on France's northern shores have adopted a new strategy due to a shortage of small boats. Rival criminal groups are now working together, loading more migrants onto fewer, larger vessels, such as the "mega-dinghy." The UK and France have announced initiatives to increase police presence on the French coast to curb migrant crossings. This comes as Andy Burnham prepares to host French President Emmanuel Macron at Downing Street.

Gang members have informed sources that more mega-dinghies are being prepared, raising concerns among emergency teams on both sides of the Channel. On August 4, 170 people had to be rescued from a boat that caught fire mid-Channel. French officers claim they intercept two-thirds of small boats before they reach the coast, reducing crossing opportunities and increasing prices. The current cost is up to £1,700 per person, paid in cash to ensure commitment.

Observations at Gravelines beach reveal the organized nature of migrant crossings. During one low tide, a small boat, known as the "taxi boat," launched from Belgium, collected groups of migrants waiting patiently in the shallows. French police argue they cannot intervene at this stage due to drowning fears, frustrating British authorities. The small boat made five collections over three hours, eventually carrying 82 people into the Channel.

The migrants' journey reflects the desperation of those seeking a better life in the UK. On Gravelines, scenes of dejection unfold as a limp toddler is revived by a police officer while holidaymakers barely notice. Increasing police patrols have pushed gangs to launch boats during the day, coordinating boarding more efficiently.

The remaining migrants face extended waits for favorable crossing conditions, often weeks or months. To avoid detection, many sleep in woods or dunes near the beach, foregoing larger camps with basic amenities. At Loon-Plage, near Dunkirk, migrants endure harsh conditions and multiple failed crossing attempts.

The UK praises French police for reducing crossing numbers, despite the complex situation involving immigration policy, weather, and migrant motivations. Thousands continue to enter the UK illegally each month, driven by deep-rooted aspirations and the evolving tactics of people smuggling gangs.