Reports from French and UK coastguards and NGOs

Three Migrants Die Attempting to Cross English Channel Near Sangatte; 76 Deaths This Year and Four Hospitalized

Dec 29, 2024, 10:26 AM

At least three migrants died early on December 29 while attempting to cross the English Channel from northern France. The tragedy occurred near Sangatte, where a large-scale rescue operation was launched following reports of an overloaded boat. French authorities confirmed that in addition to the fatalities, several others were rescued, with reports indicating that at least four individuals were hospitalized. This incident marks a grim milestone in 2024, which has become the deadliest year on record for illegal migrant crossings in the Channel, with at least 76 deaths reported so far. The Mayor of Sangatte described the boarding process as chaotic, with many more migrants than the boat could safely accommodate. Despite ongoing efforts by French and British authorities to curb these crossings, the Channel remains a significant route for those fleeing conflict or poverty.