Two individuals have tragically lost their lives after a vessel sank in the Channel with around 50 asylum-seekers on board, as confirmed by French maritime authorities. A total of 46 people were successfully rescued following the incident near Calais, according to the French maritime prefecture for the Channel and the North Sea.
The distressing event unfolded early in the morning, prompting a swift rescue operation after a life jacket was sighted in the water. Helicopters and rescue vessels were swiftly deployed to commence search and rescue efforts. The maritime prefecture reported to Agence France-Presse that the boat sank just two kilometres from Calais, around 8am local time.
Upon rescue, two individuals were found unconscious and were promptly given initial medical treatment on one of the rescue boats. Tragically, both individuals were later pronounced dead by medical teams in Calais. Authorities continue their search in the waters for any other potential occupants of the sunken vessel.
The Boulogne-sur-Mer public prosecutor’s office has initiated an investigation into the incident, with more details to follow as the situation develops.
This devastating event serves as a somber reminder of the risks and challenges faced by asylum-seekers attempting perilous journeys across the sea in search of safety and refuge.
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