12 people die after boat carrying migrants sinks in English Channel
(VOVWORLD) - A boat carrying migrants ripped apart in the English Channel as they attempted to reach Britain from northern France, plunging dozens into the treacherous waterway and leaving 12 dead, authorities said on Tuesday.
 Migrants attempt to cross the English Channel from Gravelines, France to the UK on April 26, 2024. Photo: Getty Images/VNA |
A large-scale rescue operation was immediately launched as the boat encountered rough seas. The French coastguard vessels Minck and Abeille Normandie led the search and rescue efforts off the coast of Le Portel in France's Pas-de-Calais region. Rescue helicopters were also deployed to assist in the operation.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, along with the Pas-de-Calais police chief, visited the scene to oversee the ongoing efforts.
So far this year, at least 25 migrants have lost their lives attempting to cross the English Channel