A migrant has tragically lost their life while attempting to cross the English Channel, according to the French coastguard. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning near Equihen-Plage in northern France, shortly after 9 a.m. Reports indicated that a group was trying to board a dinghy when trouble arose.
In the rescue operation that followed, two individuals were pulled from the water. One was suffering from hypothermia, while the other was in cardiac arrest. Both were taken to Boulogne-sur-Mer for medical assistance. Unfortunately, despite efforts to save the person in cardiac arrest, they were pronounced dead.
The coastguard has confirmed that search operations are still ongoing in the Pas-de-Calais region to locate any additional individuals who may be in the water. This incident marks the third death recorded by the French coastguard in their rescue efforts in the Channel this year.
Recent data from the Home Office reveals that no migrants have successfully crossed the Channel in the past week. On March 10, however, 261 migrants made the journey in five boats, bringing the total number of arrivals for the year to 4,395.
This incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting to cross the Channel, a perilous route that has claimed many lives over the years. As search efforts continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those who might still be at risk in the water.