Number of Albanians imprisoned in Britain increases, one arrested every two days

2026-04-08 12:05:00, Aktualitet CNA

The number of Albanian nationals ending up in UK prisons remains high, with an average of one person imprisoned every two days. According to data published in The Telegraph, during the first three months of the year, around 63 Albanians were sentenced, accumulating a total of 207 years in prison.

Albanians make up around 9% of all prisoners in England and Wales, making them the largest group among the 10,376 foreign nationals in prison. They are followed by Ireland and Poland, each with 7%.

Most of the sentences are related to drug crimes and violent theft, while the most serious cases also involve violent crimes. One of the most shocking cases is the life sentence of an Albanian citizen for the murder of his three-month-old baby.

British authorities link the increase in crime to a wave of illegal immigration, particularly arrivals by small boats in 2022, when a record 12,551 Albanians entered the country. According to the National Crime Agency, some of them are involved in the informal economy or criminal networks, sending large sums of money to Albania.

The cost to taxpayers is considerable, with each prisoner costing around £60,018 per year, which could amount to £800 million in total if all sentences are served in full.

Meanwhile, the British government has stepped up measures to deport foreign nationals who commit crimes. Under current rules, those sentenced to more than 12 months in prison automatically receive deportation orders. Through an agreement with Albania, deportations are being carried out almost weekly, with dozens of people returning to their country.

Authorities have warned that measures will be further tightened, with the aim of curbing illegal immigration and criminality. / Adapted from CNA

Taken from The Telegraph