A tragic incident has occurred as a boat carrying migrants attempting to cross the English Channel from France to Britain capsized, resulting in at least 12 deaths and dozens of rescues. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has confirmed the casualties and stated that rescue operations are still ongoing to locate two missing individuals. The boat reportedly suffered a rip on its bottom, causing the tragic incident near the town of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Rescuers managed to save 65 people from the water, marking this as the deadliest migrant boat tragedy in the English Channel this year. Many passengers did not have life vests, emphasizing the dangers of attempting such crossings in unsafe conditions.
The United Kingdom Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, expressed shock and sadness over the deaths and blamed criminal gangs for profiting from the dangerous journeys undertaken by migrants. This year alone, at least 30 individuals have died or gone missing while trying to cross to the UK, highlighting the risks involved in seeking refuge in another country. Recent data from the UK Home Office shows that over 2,000 people have attempted the perilous journey across the English Channel in the past week, with varying outcomes.
Authorities continue to work on rescue efforts and investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident, as questions remain about the safety and conditions of the boat that capsized.Critics are calling for action to address the root causes of migration and prevent further tragedies from occurring in the future.
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