Migrants rescue: Search underway in Channel for 50 people after boat capsizes, with 10 in critical condition
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
A major air and sea operation was underway to rescue more than 50 migrants from the Channel on Tuesday after a boat capsized off the French coast.
At least 10 were in a critical condition after entering the water at Wimereux, near Boulogne-sur-Mer, a French coast guard spokesperson said.
According to a local mayor quoted by France 3, the critically ill were in a state of cardio-respiratory arrest.
Local newspaper La Voix du Nord said at least 10 may have died, though this could not immediately be confirmed.
Related: ‘I will never forgive myself’: Father recalls heartbreaking moment daughter died on small boat
Interior minister Gérald Darmanin is expected to head to the scene, France 3 reported.
A spokesperson for the French maritime prefecture said several of those rescued require emergency medical care and a treatment centre has been set up at Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Helicopters and boats have been used in the search, the spokesperson added.
Many of those rescued were brought ashore at Le Portel, on the south side of Boulogne harbour.
Tackling illegal immigration has been a priority for both the British and French governments. Thousands have arrived in Britain this year in boats.
Last week, French president Emmanuel Macron and British prime minister Keir Starmer pledged to work closer together to dismantle migrant smuggling routes.
The Channel is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and currents are strong, making the crossing on small boats dangerous.
In August, two people were found dead after a boat carrying migrants trying to cross the Channel ran into difficulties.
This is a breaking news story, more follows…
