Federal police reinforce local West Coast police to up fight against human trafficking

Tuesday night, human traffickers and transmigrants were again arrested on the West Coast. Transmigrants are migrants, who are not eager to stay in Belgium, but are determined to cross the English Channel and make their way to the UK.

It was not the first time this year that transmigrants had attempted to cross the Channel. However, with good weather in prospect, the police expect many more attempts. ‘And so new measures are being introduced,’ says West Flanders Governor Carl Decaluwé.

‘First of all, federal police reinforcements are being brought in. The exact number is currently being calculated. A precise plan should be ready by Wednesday evening. I don't expect much opposition from the authorities in Brussels in this regard, because didn't the minister instruct me at the time to do everything possible to prevent tent camps?’

Port of Nieuwpoort under scrutiny

‘Secondly, maritime police will monitor the port of Nieuwpoort on a permanent basis.  This is currently not the case. And thirdly, from now on, every case of smuggling will be systematically reported.’

Governor Decaluwé also advocates ‘more than ever’ good cooperation and data exchange. ‘That way, we can hopefully keep the problems under control,’ he says. ‘The pressure remains high, with the good weather approaching. And the West Coast police zone is doing a fantastic job, but it cannot continue to bear the burden alone.’