In late February and early March 2026, authorities reported several incidents along the Belgian coast. On the night of 25–26 February, fifteen migrants were found in Nieuwpoort with a rubber dinghy, an outboard motor, and jerrycans of fuel. On the night of 2–3 March, eight suspected human smugglers were arrested in Koksijde and Nieuwpoort, while police issued reports to seven individuals for illegal stay. On 5 March, a RAGO helicopter located thirteen individuals in the dunes of Koksijde. In the week following these incidents, migrants were dropped off twice in Middelkerke, and movements were also observed on the Middelkerke beaches, reflecting the continued pressure along the coastline.

To respond to the growing pressure, the federal police have reinforced local police operations. Since the beginning of March, measures include permanent maritime patrols to monitor small-boat departures, continuous security coverage of the Nieuwpoort harbour by the navigation police, and support for ground patrols and highway checkpoints along the E40. A helicopter has been deployed to provide rapid response to suspicious movements.

In addition to national measures, authorities are seeking to strengthen cooperation with the United Kingdom. On 12 March 2026, Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin and UK Migration Minister Alex Norris visited a police operation in Adinkerke near De Panne and emphasised the need for closer collaboration. They noted that information sharing has become more difficult since Brexit and stressed that an appropriate legal framework is needed to ensure smooth exchange. Operational support between the two countries will also be enhanced to respond quickly to smuggling attempts.

For further details, please read recent press releases from MSN Nieuws (in Dutch), VRT NWS (in Dutch) or Focus & WTV (in Dutch).