The government has announced a £100 million investment to boost border security and intensify efforts against people smuggling gangs. This funding will support the pilot of a new returns agreement with France and bolster law enforcement operations targeting criminal networks involved in small boat crossings. The money will be used to recruit up to 300 new officials, deploy advanced detection technology, and enhance investigations across multiple regions. While ministers say the move will strengthen the government's plan to dismantle smuggling operations, critics argue it will have little impact and accuse the government of headline-grabbing tactics. The investment comes as small boat arrivals reach record levels for the year, and new powers are set to be introduced to criminalise the promotion of illegal crossings online.