At least three people have died off the coast of Calais while attempting to cross into England. The mayor of the Sangatte municipality, Guy Allemand, confirmed the fatalities and reported that seven people are in intensive care.
Approximately 50 migrants were taken under the care of the French humanitarian charity Utopia 56. According to local media, some were transported to the Sangatte marine base for treatment, while ten individuals suffering from severe hypothermia are being attended to by firefighters.
A French Navy helicopter participated in the large-scale rescue operation, which was launched following the first distress call at around 6:15 AM on Sunday. The bodies of two adults were recovered by rescue services approximately 45 minutes later.
A UK government spokesperson stated, “We can confirm that an incident involving a small vessel occurred in the Channel in French waters. French authorities are leading the response and investigation.”
The UK Home Office has declined to provide further comments at this stage.
This tragic event adds to the grim toll of 76 people who have died this year while attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats.
