Migrant Boat Rescued Off Calais
French authorities rescued 68 migrants from a small boat experiencing engine failure off the coast of Calais on Friday. The French coastguard patrol boat Jacques Oudart Fourmentin (JOF) located the vessel near the old Walde lighthouse and launched two rigid inflatable boats to bring the people onboard to safety.
The Maritime Prefecture, the French government's representative at sea, confirmed the rescue and warned against attempting to cross the English Channel due to its dangers. They highlighted the busy shipping traffic, frequent difficult weather conditions, and the vulnerability of small, overloaded boats.
UK Arrivals Continue
Meanwhile, the UK Home Office confirmed that 183 people from three boats arrived on British shores on Thursday. This brings the total number of arrivals for the year to 890, compared to 621 at the same point last year.
The Home Office remains committed to stopping dangerous small boat crossings, emphasizing the risks involved and the exploitation by people-smuggling gangs. They are determined to dismantle these gangs and bring them to justice.
Increase in Channel Crossings
Last year, 36,816 people crossed the English Channel, a 25% increase from 2023's 29,437 arrivals. However, this figure was still 20% lower than the record 45,774 arrivals in 2022.
8 Comments
ArtemK
These people are fleeing terrible situations. They deserve our help and support.
Coccinella
Rescuing migrants only encourages more dangerous crossings. We should prevent them from leaving in the first place!
Muchacho
The risks involved in these crossings are well-known. Those who undertake them should face consequences.
Africa
Why don't they just stay in their own countries? This would save everyone the trouble.
Mariposa
If they know it's dangerous to cross, why do they still attempt it? It doesn’t make sense!
Michelangelo
These migrants are just seeking a better life. We need to provide refuge and understanding.
Leonardo
The French authorities should focus on stopping these crossings instead of rescuing them.
Donatello
The numbers just keep rising. It’s time to close our borders!