Border Force Snatches Overcrowded Migrant Dinghy in English Channel
Massive Rescue Operation Underway
This morning, a Border Force vessel intercepted a dangerously overloaded inflatable boat packed with 70 to 80 migrants making the risky crossing from France to the UK. The 8ft grey dinghy was spotted just after 7am, barely holding together but still afloat.
The Border Force Defender quickly swooped in to take control. After rescuing those on board, the vessel is now heading to Dover. The Defender also carried out a second rescue of another inflatable in danger of capsizing, underlining the fraught conditions in the Channel today.
More Migrant Boats at Risk in the Channel
Sources reveal several other small boats were spotted nearby, many listed dangerously low in the water and overloaded with a “large number” of passengers. The threat of capsizing is high as these vessels struggle against the elements.
Multi-Agency Effort Intensifies
The rescue mission is ongoing this morning with Border Force teams and French maritime authorities working closely to monitor and respond to the escalating crisis.
The Home Office has yet to issue a formal comment on today’s dramatic Channel events.
