As of 10 August 2025, a staggering 26,555 people have successfully crossed the English Channel in small boats, according to official statistics. This figure marks the highest number recorded at this point in any year since data collection began in 2018. The trend indicates a significant increase in crossings, raising ongoing concerns about safety and border security.
Since the general election last year, a total of 49,797 individuals have been detected making the perilous journey across the Channel. Experts anticipate that the forthcoming figures may surpass the 50,000 mark, with updated statistics expected to be released later today.
A spokesperson for the Home Office has voiced concerns about the dangers associated with these crossings, emphasizing that they pose a challenge to the UK’s border security. In response to this ongoing issue, the UK government has made a commitment to “smash the gangs” responsible for facilitating these illegal crossings. Recently, the government implemented a controversial “one in, one out” agreement with France, under which the UK will return small boat arrivals while accepting asylum seekers from France via a newly established legal route. To learn more about the government's strategies regarding illegal migration and asylum, click here.
In other news, we are currently investigating reports of a drone strike targeting a facility known as JSC Monocrystal in the southern Russian city of Stavropol. This plant is known for producing synthetic sapphires, which are crucial for manufacturing optical fibers and various electrical equipment. A video verifying the aftermath of the alleged strike has surfaced on social media, showcasing a significant plume of smoke emanating from the vicinity of the plant.
While another video purportedly shows an explosion, its authenticity remains unverified due to the poor lighting conditions. As of now, local authorities have not confirmed whether an attack on the facility actually occurred.
In a significant political move, President Trump signed an executive order yesterday declaring a “crime emergency” in the District of Columbia, attributing it to what he describes as “rising violence in the capital.” His administration is taking steps to assume control over the city’s police department and plans to deploy hundreds of National Guard troops to Washington, DC.
However, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has countered Trump's claims, asserting that the city has experienced “a huge decrease in crime” and currently sits at a 30-year low in violent crime rates. This discrepancy raises the question: who is correct in their assessment? While some studies indicate that crime rates in the capital are higher than average compared to other major US cities, data shows that violent crime in 2024 reached its lowest level in three decades and has continued to decline into the current year. For a comprehensive examination of this issue, read our team's full fact-check.
Good morning and welcome to today's BBC Verify Live. This platform is dedicated to sharing the efforts of our verification, fact-checking, and data journalism teams. Our verification experts are currently investigating reports of drone strikes in both Ukraine and Russia, including the recent allegations concerning an industrial plant in southern Russia. We will share our findings shortly.
Additionally, we expect the latest figures regarding small boat crossings to indicate that approximately 50,000 migrants have reached the UK since the Labour government took office in July last year. Our data experts are analyzing these numbers, which are due in the early afternoon, to assess the implications for the government’s pledge to “smash the gangs.” As we await these figures, you can also check out our overnight fact-check addressing President Trump’s assertion that crime in Washington, DC, is “out of control.” For more updates, visit the BBC Verify section on the BBC News website.
