UK Activists Investigated for Filming Asylum Seekers Inside HMO

UK authorities are investigating anti-migrant campaigners who filmed themselves entering a house in multiple occupation (HMO) and questioning asylum seekers residing there. The footage, titled 'HMO Hunting in Leicestershire,' was posted online by a group known as Truthhurts101UK, which has a significant following on the social media platform X.

The video, which was subsequently removed from YouTube for violating its terms of service, had garnered hundreds of thousands of views on X. The group's account stated that the property, located in the Leicestershire village of Fleckney, housed six men despite residents being told only five would be accommodated. The post also claimed that residents were not consulted about the occupants.

The video depicts three individuals entering the property through an unlocked back door and confronting individuals identified as asylum seekers in the kitchen. The filmmakers identified themselves as contractors assessing the property for repairs and questioned residents about the management company, Serco, and asked to see paperwork.

A Serco spokesperson confirmed awareness of the post and stated that the company takes such matters seriously and is investigating. A Home Office representative emphasized the government's commitment to the safety and security of asylum accommodation residents, staff, and communities, and expects any criminal incidents to be addressed promptly.

YouTube cited violations of its policies against harassment and the revealing of personally identifiable information as reasons for removing the video. Louise Calvey, executive director of the campaign group Asylum Matters, condemned the video as a "premeditated invasion into someone’s home for clicks and attention." She urged the government to enhance protections for asylum seekers, remove sensitive accommodation details from public view, support victims of crime, and ensure faster police responses.

Truthhurts101UK, in response to media reports, has reportedly described asylum seekers as "ticking timebombs" and dismissed critical media outlets. The group has also shared articles about the incident, labeling them "hit pieces."

The rise in HMOs is partly attributed to government efforts to move asylum seekers from hotels into community housing to reduce costs. Data indicates a significant increase in HMO applications and estimated numbers in the UK in recent years, with applications rising from over 41,000 in 2018 to over 57,000 by 2024.