A small boat smuggler, known as “Salar,” is advertising a “Christmas special” deal to help migrants illegally cross the Channel into the UK. Using an open Telegram group, he refers to the illegal crossings as “the game.”
Salar first shared his offer on December 17, including screenshots of weather forecasts. He told an undercover reporter posing as a migrant in Germany:
“To go to England, I have 15-person ‘games’ for Christmas. From December 25 to 29, there will be special offers because the weather is good. God willing, you will be in England before the new year.”
In one of his posts, Salar wrote: “Hello, my dear friends. Boat game. Dates 25, 26, 27; no waves at all. Wishing you all the best.”
Many smugglers like Salar use social media platforms, such as Telegram and TikTok, to connect with migrants. These online networks have facilitated around 30,000 Channel crossings this year. The undercover reporter noted that Salar was “polite” and “straightforward.” He advised:
“As the weather is good, many people are calling. If you wait too long, you won’t get a spot. Everyone wants to cross during Christmas.”
Salar explained the payment system, asking migrants to deposit money at an exchange shop as a sign of commitment. He added:
“If someone pays more, the boat will have fewer passengers, making the crossing safer. The fee is £2,500 per person, while children can go for half price.”
Those who cannot pay the full price will be packed into overcrowded dinghies designed for 20 people but carrying 60. Salar claimed that if a boat starts sinking, he or his team would alert the French authorities, although there are no real guarantees of safety.
This year has been the deadliest for Channel crossings, with over 50 migrants losing their lives. Despite the risks, Salar assured the reporter:
“I can help you get to Calais from Germany. Even if you don’t cross the Channel with us, you know our work is guaranteed.”
