Two women have died while attempting to cross the English Channel from France in a small boat, according to French officials. The vessel, carrying 82 individuals, ran aground on a beach in northern France on Sunday morning. The deceased, both approximately 20 years old and believed to be of Sudanese origin, were discovered inside the boat, reported Christophe Marx, secretary-general of the Pas-de-Calais prefecture. Additionally, three people sustained serious injuries, and 14 others suffered moderate wounds.
Investigation Launched
The Boulogne-sur-Mer prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation into the incident. A Home Office spokesperson expressed deep sadness over the deaths, stating, "Every death in the Channel is a tragedy and a stark reminder of the dangers posed by criminal gangs exploiting vulnerable people for profit." The spokesperson added that the Home Office will continue to collaborate relentlessly with French authorities and international partners to prevent such perilous journeys.
Recent Crossing Statistics
According to the latest government figures, 597 migrants arrived in the UK via six small boats over the past week. In April, the UK and France signed a new agreement worth £662 million aimed at curbing small boat crossings. The deal includes deploying riot-trained police to French beaches, as well as drones, helicopters, and camera systems worth millions of pounds to intercept people smugglers and illegal migrants.
Crossings have surged over the past three years, with 41,472 people arriving in the UK by small boat in 2025. A Home Office spokesperson previously noted, "We have stopped over 42,000 illegal migrants attempting to cross the Channel since the election. We have removed or deported almost 60,000 people who were here illegally. But we are going further to remove the incentives that draw illegal migrants to this country and increase removals and deportations of those with no right to be here."
