Thousands of Afghans secretly moved to UK after data breach

Thousands of Afghans were secretly moved to the UK, secretly, after their data was leaked.

In February 2022, personal details of around 19,000 people who had applied to move to the UK after the Taliban seized power were leaked. The data contained the names, contact details and some family information.

The then government only learned about the leak in August 2023 after some of the details appeared on Facebook. 

A secret resettlement scheme was then set up for those on the list and 4,500 Afghans have arrived in the UK so far.

The leak and resettlement scheme were kept secret as the then government obtained a super-injunction. Details were only made public this week after a judge ordered the gagging order to be lifted.

It is believed that 600 Afghan soldiers included in the leak, and 1,800 of their family members, are still in Afghanistan. Those whose personal details were included in the leak were only made aware this week.

The secret scheme, known as the Afghan Relocation Route has already cost £400 million is expected to cost another £400-450 million. It is now being closed down, but relocation offers that have already been made will be honoured.