Twelve Asylum Seekers Perish in Attempt to Cross English Channel
Yvette Cooper has described the deaths as ‘horrifying and deeply tragic,’ saying that the government was committed to dismantling people smuggling gangs.
At least 12 asylum seekers have died after their boat sank while trying to cross the English Channel, as reported by the French coastguard.
French authorities rescued up to 65 people from a boat in distress off the coast of Cap Gris-Nez, about 10 miles north of Wimereux, during a search operation on Tuesday morning.
All passengers on the dinghy ended up in the water, with some requiring medical attention, according to the French coastguard.
The casualties are receiving treatment in Le Portel near Boulogne-sur-Mer, where the mayor, Olivier Barbarin, noted significant damage to the boat.
A French coastguard spokesperson mentioned that the search for the missing persons involved multiple helicopters, boats, and the French navy.
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More illegal immigrants have arrived in Dover after crossing the Channel, with assistance from Border Force and lifeboat vessels.
‘Horrifying and Deeply Tragic’
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her shock at the deaths in the Channel, calling it a “horrifying and deeply tragic incident.”
Cooper stated that she was liaising with French Interior Minister Darmanin and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the incident.
She also criticized the people smuggling gangs for endangering lives and stressed the importance of dismantling these criminal networks to prevent further tragedies.
Since the July election, Labour has made efforts to address illegal immigration and strengthen border security, including recruiting staff for the Border Security Command and opening additional spaces in immigration removal centres.
Figures from the Home Office indicate a significant number of illegal immigrants crossing the English Channel, highlighting the need for effective border control measures.
PA Media contributed to this report.
