Kenyans Living in UK Risk Phone Seizure Under New Police Powers

The UK government has introduced new powers allowing law enforcement agencies to seize electronic devices from migrants without a prior arrest as part of a border security operation announced on 5 January.

The Home Office said the measures are intended to strengthen intelligence-gathering against people-smuggling networks and will apply to foreign nationals living in the UK unlawfully, including those affected by irregular migration from countries such as Kenya. The policy has been implemented at the Manston migrant processing centre in Kent, where police officers, the National Crime Agency (NCA), and Immigration Enforcement staff have begun confiscating mobile phones and SIM cards during searches of vehicles and properties. 

Officials said the focus is on disrupting organised criminal groups involved in facilitating unauthorised crossings, particularly small boat journeys across the Channel. According to the Home Office, specialist technology is being used to extract data from seized devices, allowing investigators to map communications and identify links to human trafficking operations. 

In a statement, the department said officers now have the authority to seize electronic devices from unlawful migrants without first making an arrest, with the aim of supporting earlier intervention against suspected smugglers. UK media reports indicate that enforcement officers may also require individuals to remove outer clothing and undergo oral checks to locate concealed SIM cards. 

The government said such measures are lawful and proportionate, while acknowledging concerns around personal privacy. Mike Tapp, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, defended the approach, stating that devices containing potential intelligence should be accessible to investigators. He said the seizure of devices does not remove the government’s duty to act with compassion and confirmed that the return of devices would depend on the information obtained.

The announcement follows increased political focus on small boat arrivals. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood recently reiterated her commitment to border security during a meeting of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance in London. She said unlawful migration remains a priority and warned that countries refusing to accept the return of their nationals could face visa restrictions.

The government said the effectiveness of the policy will be judged by its ability to lead to arrests and prosecutions of organised smuggling networks.