THE number of Albanians making risky small boat crossings to the UK has plunged as a fast-track removal scheme kicks in.
Just 29 crossed the Channel in the first three months of this year — a fraction of the 12,301 who made the journey in 2022, official figures show.
1,099 Albanians came here in the final three months of last year.
Some 500 illegal migrants have so far been returned to Albania under the initiative after Rishi Sunak promised to stop the boats — one of the PM’s five key priorities outlined for this year.
Officials believe poor weather has deterred some from leaving the eastern European country.
It is also believed that gangs, who charge thousands for crossings, fear being detained if they are picked up in a small boat.
Alp Mehmet, chair of Migration Watch, said: “It seems Albanian chancers may have got the message — if you come illegally you won’t be able to stay.
“Let’s now get it through to the others, of whom the highest number in one day this year arrived over the weekend.”
Home Office figures revealed today that there were 909 Afghan arrivals, some 24 per cent of the total, with 675 Indians coming here by small boat.
Tory MP Kevin Foster said the figures showed the blitz was “producing results”, adding it was key the Illegal Migration Bill gets through the Commons.
He said: “There is more to do, hence it is vital the Migration Bill passes the Commons this week and unelected peers do not stand in its way.”
The Equality and Human Rights Commission claims the legislation would breach international law.
