At least 12 people have been confirmed dead, and over 50 others have been rescued after a boat carrying migrants capsized in the English Channel off the French coast. The incident occurred in the Pas-de-Calais region near Wimereux, a notoriously treacherous area for maritime navigation.
According to French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, the provisional toll stands at 12 deceased, two individuals still missing, and several others injured. The tragic event prompted a large-scale search and rescue operation involving both French and British authorities. Emergency services have been working tirelessly to locate the missing persons and provide medical care to the survivors.
The UK Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, described the incident as “horrifying and deeply tragic.” She expressed her appreciation for the French rescue teams, who managed to save many lives despite the difficult conditions. Cooper also highlighted the dire situation created by human smuggling gangs, which have been increasingly overcrowding unseaworthy boats with migrants, often sending them out in hazardous weather conditions. She emphasized the urgent need to dismantle these criminal networks and strengthen border security to prevent further tragedies.
The French coastguard reported that a total of 65 individuals were recovered, including the 12 confirmed deceased. Among the survivors, more than 50 are receiving treatment in Boulogne-sur-Mer, with several requiring urgent medical attention. A medical post has been established in Boulogne-sur-Mer to support the survivors and ensure they receive the necessary care.
This incident marks the deadliest disaster in the English Channel this year, a busy and perilous maritime route. The English Channel remains one of the world’s most challenging shipping lanes, and the recent tragedy underscores the severe risks faced by migrants attempting the crossing.
The ongoing search and rescue efforts are focused on locating the missing individuals and providing support to those affected. The French and UK authorities are continuing their operations and have vowed to address the broader issues of illegal migration and human smuggling in the region.
