UK Haulage Firm Owner Describes Migrant Stowaways as 'Forgotten Route'
Lorenzo Zaccheo highlights the issue of migrants hidden in freight trucks, emphasizing it as a less-discussed but persistent problem.
Lorenzo Zaccheo, the owner of an international haulage company based in Kent, England, has brought attention to the issue of migrants entering Britain hidden within freight trucks. Zaccheo described the situation as a "disgrace" and highlighted that this method of entry is often overlooked while public focus remains on migrant crossings by sea.
Zaccheo's company operates a significant number of international journeys, with his lorries making approximately 10,000 round trips to Europe annually. He estimates that an average of eight migrants successfully stow away in his vehicles each year. "When you open up the trailer, it's a disgrace," Zaccheo stated, emphasizing the challenges faced by his drivers who are often blamed for these incidents.
This "forgotten" route into Britain has reportedly seen an increase in attention as people smugglers seek alternative methods for illegal entry. The squeeze on Channel crossings has led to fears of a renewed wave of lorry stowaways, with migrants attempting to bypass border security by concealing themselves in commercial transport.
Zaccheo's concerns highlight the complex nature of migration control, where various routes and methods are employed by individuals seeking to enter the country. The issue places a burden on transport companies and their employees, who are on the front lines of discovering these stowaways.