UK Charter Flight Returns 43 Failed Asylum Seekers and Foreign Offenders to Nigeria and Ghana
Recently, the United Kingdom government facilitated the return of 43 failed asylum seekers and foreign offenders to Nigeria and Ghana on a charter flight. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen international collaboration in securing borders and enforcing immigration regulations.
The successful flight highlights the government’s commitment to restoring order in the immigration system through the Plan for Change, which aims to ensure that rules are upheld and individuals who violate them are promptly returned to their home countries.
Among those repatriated were 15 failed asylum seekers, 11 foreign national offenders who had completed their sentences, and 7 individuals who voluntarily returned. This operation marks the second charter flight to Nigeria and Ghana since the election, emphasizing the effective partnership between the UK and these African nations in addressing immigration challenges.
Since the election, the UK government has deported over 24,000 individuals, representing an 11% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Notably, the government has conducted several large-scale deportation flights to various regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America.
Furthermore, the deportation of foreign national offenders has surged by 16% post-election, with 3,594 criminals being removed from the country. Immigration Enforcement ensures that all returns are carried out with dignity and respect for the individuals involved.
Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Angela Eagle, emphasized the importance of international partnerships in achieving swift returns and securing borders. She expressed gratitude to Ghana and Nigeria for their cooperation in facilitating the operation and reiterated the joint commitment to combat organized immigration crime.
Baroness Chapman of Darlington, FCDO Minister responsible for Irregular Migration, underscored the significance of international collaboration in addressing irregular migration. She praised the strong cooperation with Ghana and Nigeria in returning individuals without the right to stay in the UK, safeguarding borders, and implementing the Plan for Change.
The charter flight operation follows the Organized Immigration Crime Summit, where the UK engaged with over 40 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, to combat smuggling gangs and enhance border security. This initiative aligns with the government’s mission to protect borders and disrupt illegal immigration activities.
Original content distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
