New migration tragedy in the Channel. According to a still provisional report, around ten migrants died this Tuesday after their boat sank off the coast of Boulogne-sur-Mer (Pas-de-Calais), we learned from the prefecture. Several other people are also in a very serious condition. According to a source close to the case, the toll could even be much higher and could reach thirteen deaths, including three minors.
A state-chartered vessel, the Minckhad spotted the boat in difficulty with more than sixty people on board and went to its aid as soon as it broke apart, said Lieutenant Etienne Baggio. Search operations are still underway, he added, specifying that the boats that had taken in victims are in the process of bringing them back to Boulogne-sur-Mer.
While attempted crossings have increased in recent years, twenty-five migrants had already died in the waters of the Channel in 2024 before this new tragedy.
More info to come…