Four migrants drowned overnight in the Channel near Boulogne-sur-Mer on France’s northern coast while attempting to cross to Britain, according to French maritime police on Friday.
A navy patrol boat responded after receiving alerts that several migrants had fallen into the sea during their crossing attempt, the maritime police informed Agence France-Presse (AFP).
Four individuals were airlifted from the water by helicopter but were pronounced dead. However, other migrants were successfully rescued, the police added.
This incident raises the total number of deaths this year to 19 for those attempting to cross from France to Britain in often overloaded boats. On April 23, five migrants lost their lives off the French coast while attempting the perilous journey.
The English Channel, a narrow body of water separating southern England from northern France, has become a focal point for migrants seeking to reach the United Kingdom.
Despite the dangerous conditions, many migrants attempt the crossing in small, overcrowded boats, often facilitated by human traffickers.
The increase in these dangerous crossings has led to heightened tensions between France and the UK, with both governments striving to find solutions to the ongoing crisis.
The UK has implemented stricter immigration policies, while France has increased patrols and security measures along its northern coast.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for safer, legal routes for asylum seekers and increased cooperation between European countries to address the root causes of migration.
However, the risk of drowning and other dangers continues to pose significant threats to those desperate enough to make the journey.
Source: Agence France-Presse