A total of 973 migrants crossed the English Channel in 17 boats on Saturday, marking the highest daily number recorded so far this year. The figure surpasses the previous record of 882 people on 18 June 2024.
The crossings come amid tragic reports from French authorities that four people died while attempting the dangerous journey, including a two-year-old boy who was reportedly “trampled to death.
Jacques Billant, the prefect of the Pas-de-Calais region, stated that the French coastguard responded to a boat carrying almost 90 people, which experienced engine failure. Fifteen passengers were transferred to a tow vessel, including the boy who was found unconscious. Despite efforts by a medical team, the boy was pronounced dead.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the actions of human smugglers, stating: “The people smugglers have the blood of these people on their hands, and our government will intensify the fight against these mafias who are getting rich by organising these crossings of death.
UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper responded to Mr Retailleau on social media, calling the loss of lives, including that of a young child, “appalling.” She added that “criminal smuggler gangs” show no regard for human life.
In another incident, a boat carrying 83 people also experienced engine failure. Among the passengers, three individuals — two men and one woman — were found unconscious, possibly due to being crushed and suffocated at the bottom of the vessel.
The total number of fatalities so far this year is 51, compared to 12 in 2023, Mr. Billant reported.
The migrants rescued on Saturday were from several countries, including Eritrea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iran, Ethiopia, Libya, Syria, Egypt, Kuwait, and Iraq.
The latest figures add to the ongoing crisis in the English Channel, highlighting the risks faced by migrants attempting to cross in search of a better life. The UK and French authorities continue their efforts to combat illegal smuggling operations and improve safety measures in the Channel.
