Martin Hewitt CBE QPM has been appointed as the UK’s new Border Security Commander, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to tackling illegal migration and organised crime.
This move aligns with the Prime Minister’s ongoing European reset, particularly focusing on strengthening cooperation with Italy to counter smuggling networks.
A New Era for UK Border Security
The appointment of Martin Hewitt to lead the Border Security Command is seen as a pivotal step in the UK’s fight against organised immigration crime.
The former Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, Hewitt brings over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, specialising in serious crime, counterterrorism, and public safety.
His leadership during the UK’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic further solidified his reputation as a coordinator of national security efforts.
Targeting Criminal Gangs
In this new role, Hewitt will spearhead the UK’s response to illegal migration and criminal smuggling gangs, working closely with law enforcement agencies across Europe.
As the UK government seeks to strengthen ties with European countries, particularly Italy, this appointment represents a fresh commitment to tackling these pressing issues.
“The smuggling gangs trading the lives of men, women, and children across borders must be dismantled,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“Martin Hewitt’s expertise will lead a new era of international enforcement to dismantle these networks and bring order to the asylum system.”
Strengthening UK-European Relations
Hewitt’s appointment comes as the Prime Minister continues his European reset. In Rome, the Prime Minister will meet with Italian leaders to discuss the country’s successful efforts in reducing illegal migration by sea.
Italy has seen a 60% decrease in irregular migration due to enhanced international cooperation and tough enforcement measures.
As part of this reset, the UK has already increased its National Crime Agency (NCA) presence in Europol by 50%, with officers working closely with European counterparts.
This collaboration has led to significant results, including the interception of over 40 small boats in cooperation with Bulgarian authorities, which otherwise could have carried around 2,400 people on dangerous crossings.
UK-Italy Security Collaboration Highlights
- New UK Border Security Command led by Martin Hewitt to fight illegal migration.
- Increased NCA presence at Europol, aiding European cooperation against smuggling gangs.
- Italy’s success: 60% reduction in irregular migration by sea.
This renewed collaboration underscores the importance of building strong relationships with European partners. The UK’s Border Security Command will have enhanced powers, allowing it to investigate and dismantle organised smuggling networks more effectively.
Tackling Smuggling Gangs Head-On
With the establishment of the Border Security Command, the UK aims to take a more proactive role in dismantling criminal networks. Dangerous criminal gangs have long exploited vulnerable people, with small boat crossings posing significant risks to lives.
In response, the UK government is rolling out new measures, including the recruitment of 100 specialist investigators and additional resources aimed at disrupting the smuggling trade.
Home Secretary Gives Thumbs Up
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her confidence in Hewitt’s leadership, stating,
“Martin has the experience and track record we need to lead our Border Security Command. For too long, criminal gangs have exploited our borders in the name of profit, and it’s time to put an end to it.”
The new Border Security Command will coordinate law enforcement efforts both domestically and across Europe, fostering deeper partnerships with agencies such as Europol.
The newly planned Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill will also grant law enforcement new intrusive state powers, mirroring those used to counter terrorism.
These powers will target the financiers and organisers behind human smuggling operations, allowing for greater disruption of criminal activities.
UK Border Security Command Structure
Role |
Focus |
|---|---|
| Border Security Commander (Hewitt) | Leading UK’s response to organised crime |
| National Crime Agency (NCA) | European collaboration and intelligence |
| Europol | Coordinating international law enforcement |
| Border Security Command | Investigating and disrupting smuggling gangs |
A Focus on Results
As the UK and Italy forge stronger security ties, Hewitt’s leadership promises to bring tangible results.
With 70 live operations targeting smuggling gangs currently underway, the new Commander’s role will be to accelerate these efforts, working with European partners to prevent dangerous crossings and dismantle the criminal infrastructure behind them.
During his upcoming visit to Italy, Hewitt will meet with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss Italy’s approach to tackling irregular migration.
The collaboration will extend to visits at the National Coordination Centre for Migration, where the UK team will observe how Italy manages these security threats.
Consider This
The appointment of Martin Hewitt as Border Security Commander signals a renewed focus on international cooperation and tougher enforcement measures.
As the UK strengthens its ties with European partners, particularly Italy, this new era of border security aims to significantly reduce illegal migration and dismantle criminal smuggling networks once and for all.
Sources: THX News, Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street & The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP.
