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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Migrant Stowaways Found in Lorries Highlight 'Forgotten' Route into Britain

The head of an international haulage company details the recurring discovery of migrants hidden in freight trucks, a challenge overshadowed by attention on Channel crossings.

US Politics 2 hours ago
Migrant Stowaways Found in Lorries Highlight 'Forgotten' Route into Britain

Lorenzo Zaccheo, owner of an international haulage company based in Kent, England, has highlighted a persistent issue of migrants attempting to enter Britain hidden within commercial trucks. Zaccheo described the discovery of stowaways as a "disgrace" and noted that while public attention often focuses on small boat crossings in the English Channel, his company faces ongoing challenges with migrants using freight routes.

Zaccheo's company operates approximately 10,000 round trips to Europe annually. He estimates that on average, eight migrants successfully hide in his vehicles each year. On two occasions this past summer, Zaccheo discovered migrants concealed within his trailers. He pointed out that the drivers of these lorries often bear the brunt of the blame for these discoveries.

Zaccheo's concerns are echoed by fears that increased pressure on Channel crossings may lead to a resurgence of stowaways in lorries as individuals seeking to enter the UK explore alternative routes. The proximity of his company's location to the Channel Tunnel underscores the vulnerability of such routes.

Lorenzo Zaccheo says his lorries make some 10,000 round trips to Europe annually and estimates that an average of eight migrants successfully stow away in his vehicles each year

This issue highlights a less visible facet of illegal immigration into Britain, one that directly impacts international transport and logistics companies. The reliance on lorries as a mode of transport for migrants seeking entry presents a continuous security challenge for businesses operating across borders.

The squeeze on Channel crossings has driven fears of a new wave of lorry stowaways as people smugglers seek other routes into Britain


Sources