A former chief of the National Crime Agency has warned that small boats crossing the Channel, which he described as carrying young men of military age, should concern the British public. The intervention adds to the political and public debate over irregular migration, border security and the risks associated with Channel crossings.

The article reports his view that the demographic profile of some arrivals warrants greater scrutiny and should not be dismissed. It presents the remarks as a call for the public and authorities to treat the issue as a national-security concern, rather than providing evidence that those arriving pose a specific threat.