Sudanese migrant caught changing clothes after Channel dinghy crossing jailed for 12 months
Boat skipper’s sneaky disguise foiled
Daniel Malual, 24, tried to slip under the radar after steering a dinghy packed with asylum seekers across the Channel. Border Force spotted him on September 21, 2024. Once ashore, Malual swapped his wet clothes to avoid being identified as the boat’s pilot and blended in with other passengers.
But the trick didn’t work. Authorities arrested him on November 12 at a hotel in North 123, Malual pleaded guilty to attempting to enter the UK without valid clearance. His lawyer pointed out he had no criminal record and was awaiting a Home Office phone interview – which got cancelled due to his incarceration at Holme House Prison.
“You arrived by crossing the Channel in a dinghy boat loaded with other potential asylum claimants. You piloted the boat, fully aware of the consequences of being identified as the pilot. After reaching the UK, you changed your clothes and mingled with others to avoid detection,” Judge Jonathan Carroll said.
“There are a series of countries where you could have claimed asylum, yet you chose to enter the UK illegally, bringing your partner and child with you, in complete disregard for the asylum rules.”
Malual was handed a 12-month sentence – set to serve half behind bars before release on licence.
Channel crossings remain a thorny issue
The case highlights the ongoing battle UK authorities face against small boat crossings. The Home Office has been approached for comment.
