Two migrants have died after an inflated dinghy carrying dozens of people got into difficulty in the English Channel while trying to make the crossing from France.
The incident occurred this morning, offshore between Calais and Dunkirk, a French maritime official told the BBC.
There were two fatalities and around 50 others rescued, according to authorities. The surviving migrants were taken back to France.
The Home Office confirmed that the investigation into the loss of life is being led by French authorities.
The latest fatalities brings the total of migrants who have died crossing the strait this year to 25.
Two migrants have died after a dinghy carrying dozens of people got into difficulty in the English Channel. Pictured is a Border Force vehicle in the Channel last month
Several small boats were launched into the Channel from beaches in northern France this morning after a period of windy conditions, the BBC reported.
French authorities have now launched an investigation after a vessel got into trouble, prompting a large rescue operation.
A number of British and French vessels were seen in the Channel late this morning.
A HM Coastguard spokesperson said: ‘HM Coastguard offered assistance to the French Coastguard with an incident involving a small boat in the Channel this morning, Sunday 11 August.
‘A search and rescue unit and a Border Force vessel were sent to provide support.’
A Home Office spokesperson added: ‘We can confirm there has been a tragic incident in the Channel involving a small boat in French waters which has resulted in the loss of two lives.
A total of 17,639 migrants in 343 boats have been detected successfully making the crossing so far in 2024. Pictured are migrants making their way towards England in a dinghy on August 6 this year
‘This latest tragedy underlines the terrible dangers of small boat crossings, and we continue to do everything we can to prevent callous criminals exploiting vulnerable people. Our thoughts are with those affected.’
A total of 17,639 migrants in 343 boats have been detected successfully making the crossing so far in 2024, according to Home Office figures.
The last recorded arrivals were brought into Dover on August 6 – amid windy conditions in the Channel.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.