Tragedy Strikes as Migrant Boat Sinks in Channel, Killing Six – France Launches Investigation
Paris prosecutors have taken over the investigation into the tragic incident that occurred in the English Channel. At least six migrants lost their lives when their boat sank as they attempted to cross from France to England. The authorities are now on the hunt for the human traffickers responsible for this devastating event.
The investigation was initially opened by prosecutors in the channel port of Boulogne on Saturday, soon after the incident took place. However, it has now been transferred to Paris, with officials from both offices confirming the change.
The boat, carrying up to 66 individuals, mainly comprised Afghan nationals, along with some Sudanese and a few minors, according to the French coastal authority Premar. British and French coastguards successfully rescued 59 people, but the death toll remains provisional.
While the search operation was called off on Saturday evening, vessels passing through the Channel have been urged to remain vigilant. The authorities are uncertain if there are any individuals still unaccounted for.
Herve Berville, France’s junior minister for the sea, strongly condemned the criminal traffickers responsible for this tragedy. He has vowed to combat their smuggling networks.
On Sunday, approximately 200 people gathered in Calais to pay tribute to the victims of the incident. They marched in solidarity with a large banner displaying the names of the 376 migrants who have lost their lives attempting the perilous Channel crossing since 1999.
An alliance of associations called Deces (Death), which is responsible for organizing the burial or repatriation of victims, issued a statement highlighting the indifference shown toward these migrants. The statement criticized the government’s treatment of migrants, accusing it of harassment and denial of basic rights. It also questioned whether the survivors of the shipwreck would be allowed to be reunited with their families in England and France.
Despite the dangers, many migrants along the north coast of France are still determined to make the crossing. Hajji Mahmud, from one of the makeshift camps at Loon-Plage, acknowledged the risks involved but emphasized their determination to continue until they succeed.
The Channel between France and Britain is known for its strong currents and is one of the busiest shipping lanes globally. Approximately 1,000 migrants are currently waiting on the northern French coast for an opportunity to cross.
Official figures released on Friday revealed that over 100,000 migrants have crossed the Channel on small boats from France to southeast England since 2018. In response, French authorities have increased patrols and implemented other deterrent measures, following an agreement with the UK government to provide funding for these efforts.
The escalating number of crossings has placed significant pressure on British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak‘s government, with stopping the boats becoming a key priority ahead of next year’s general elections.
Last year alone, a record-breaking 45,000 migrants successfully made the treacherous crossing.
