Specialist French police units deployed under new UK-France deal
The UK government announced on June 17 that two new French police units are now operational in Northern France under a UK-France deal aimed at stopping dangerous illegal Channel crossings.
At a glance
- Two French police units totalling 125 officers are now deployed in Northern France under the UK-France deal, per GOV.UK.
- The UK statement cited 500 million pounds invested in beach enforcement plus 160 million pounds tied to results.
- The units' mission is to break up small-boat launch attempts and seize equipment.
VERDICT — CONFIRMED
The UK government announced on June 17 that two new French police units are now operational in Northern France under a UK-France deal aimed at stopping dangerous illegal Channel crossings. According to the announcement, the units — a Compagnie de Marche of 75 officers and a new Compagnie republicaine de securite riot unit of 50 officers — total 125 specialist officers deployed in time for summer, when crossing attempts peak. The statement said the deal includes 500 million pounds invested in beach enforcement with a further 160 million pounds available based on results, and that the units will break up launch attempts and seize equipment with drone, helicopter, plane and camera surveillance support.
Key facts on file
- Two French police units totalling 125 officers are now deployed in Northern France under the UK-France deal, per GOV.UK.
- The UK statement cited 500 million pounds invested in beach enforcement plus 160 million pounds tied to results.
- The units' mission is to break up small-boat launch attempts and seize equipment.
