Migrants detained ahead of first flight to Rwanda ‘in June’

ALL the migrants earmarked for deportation to Rwanda have been placed in detention ready for the first flights as soon as the beginning of next month.

At least 50 people have been handed “notices of intent” saying they have been identified as eligible to be sent on a one-way ticket to Rwanda where they will be expected to claim asylum.

Boris Johnson is said to have wanted the first asylum seekers flown to Rwanda by the end of May although the Home Office has refused to publicly set any date for the first flight.

The migrants have been detained amid fears they could try to abscond once told they are destined for Rwanda. They have seven days to make representations against their removal before a final notification of deportation.

Asked when the first deportation flights to Rwanda will take place, Dominic Raab, the Justice Secretary said “as soon as possible”.

Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, said: “It’s a draconian move that shows a complete lack of care and compassion for people who through no fault of their own have had to escape their homelands.”