Nigel Farage has taken aim at the Home Office, calling its recent efforts to remove illegal migrants “feeble.”
His remarks come after the government released images of deportations, attempting to showcase a tougher stance on immigration enforcement.
According to the Home Office, 5,074 enforced returns took place between July 2024 and January 2025—an increase of nearly 25% compared to the previous year.
Officials also reported that 2,925 foreign national offenders were deported during this period.
However, the majority of returns remain voluntary, with some individuals receiving up to £3,000 to assist with their resettlement.
Farage, the leader of Reform UK, dismissed the figures, arguing they pale in comparison to the estimated 600,000 illegal migrants living in London alone.
He told MailOnline, “These numbers are feeble.”
Deportation Numbers on the Rise
Government figures show that since the general election, a total of 18,987 failed asylum seekers, foreign criminals, and other illegal migrants have been deported.
This marks the highest level of removals since 2018.
Additionally, four of the largest deportation flights in UK history have taken place, carrying over 850 people.
A total of 39 charter flights have transported individuals back to Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.
The Home Office also made headlines by releasing images of deportation flights for the first time.
This decision followed controversy over ministers sharing footage of dawn raids on illegal migrants, which was criticized by left-wing groups.
Government Defends Tougher Stance
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has emphasized the importance of enforcing immigration laws to restore public confidence.
She stated, “To rebuild trust in the system, we must demonstrate that the rules are respected and upheld.
That’s why we are investing in enforcement efforts to ensure that those with no right to remain—especially criminals—are swiftly removed.”
New data also revealed that force is used in approximately 10% of deportations.
In some instances, five security escorts are assigned per deportee, and officials employ restraint belts, rigid bar handcuffs, or even leg restraints when necessary.
Political Pressure and Electoral Implications
The Labour government faces growing pressure to take a firmer stance on immigration.
Recent polling suggests that Labour could lose more seats to Reform UK than the Conservatives, prompting calls from the Red Wall group of Labour MPs for stronger immigration policies.
Home Office statistics show 18,987 enforced and voluntary deportations occurred between July 5, the day after Labour took office, and January 31.
This represents a 10% increase from the previous year. Foreign national offender deportations alone rose by 21%.
Crackdown on Illegal Workers and Employers
The Home Office has also ramped up immigration enforcement operations.
Between July 5 and January 31, officials conducted 5,424 site visits and arrested 3,930 individuals—a 38% increase compared to the previous year.
In January alone, 828 workplace raids were conducted, up from 556 the previous year and 171 in 2019.
Employers found to be hiring illegal workers have been targeted in an effort to dismantle networks enabling unlawful employment.
Some of those arrested were found working in unsafe and exploitative conditions, often for little to no pay.
The Home Office has linked these cases to criminal gangs luring migrants into the UK with false promises of jobs.
Government Justifies Publicizing Immigration Raids
Labour officials have defended the decision to publish footage of immigration raids.
Home Office Minister Dame Angela Eagle argued that such transparency is crucial in deterring illegal migration.
She explained, “It’s important we show what’s happening and send a message to those who are being misled about opportunities in the UK.”
She dismissed claims that the policy lacks compassion, stating, “Enforcing the law and ensuring consequences for illegal activity is not unkind. We must have a system where the rules are respected.”
Expanding Efforts Abroad
In addition to domestic enforcement, the UK government has launched social media campaigns aimed at discouraging migration.
The initiative began in Vietnam in December and expanded to Albania in January, warning potential migrants about the risks and realities of illegal entry into Britain.
What’s Next?
With immigration a major political issue, Labour is under pressure to maintain its tough stance while balancing humanitarian concerns.
Meanwhile, Reform UK and Nigel Farage continue to push for even stricter policies.
As deportation numbers rise and enforcement measures intensify, the government’s handling of illegal immigration will likely remain a focal point in the coming months.