National Crime Agency (NCA) officers have apprehended two Sudanese nationals, aged 19 and 24, who were wanted by French authorities in connection with the death of a young girl attempting to cross the Channel in a small boat.
The tragic incident occurred on April 23 when the girl boarded the vessel on a beach near Wimereux. The boat continued into UK waters, and its occupants were brought ashore.
The suspects were detained at an address in the Hillingdon area of London on May 30. They face suspicion of causing the girl’s death.
Appearing before Westminster Magistrates on June 1, extradition proceedings commenced, and the men were remanded in custody until their next court appearance on June 7.
NCA Deputy Director of Investigations, Craig Turner, stated, “These arrests are the result of a joint investigation led by French authorities and supported by the NCA and other law enforcement partners. We remain committed to identifying those responsible for this tragic event and bringing them to justice.”