In a major effort to prevent migrant crossings, French military police, the Gendarmerie, successfully intercepted a group of approximately 60 migrants attempting to cross the English Channel on Wednesday. The operation, part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal crossings, saw officers discover a small black dinghy hidden at a location where the group intended to launch their perilous journey.

Acting swiftly, officers disabled the dinghy, rendering it unusable. After a prolonged period of trying to inflate the boat, the frustrated group abandoned their attempts to make the dangerous crossing.

The disappointed migrants were then escorted by officers back to Gravelines, where they were seen boarding a bus destined for their camp in Dunkirk. The failed attempt marked another success in the French authorities’ intensified efforts to stem the flow of illegal crossings into the UK.

Weather conditions and high swell levels over the next few days are expected to make further crossings too dangerous, but the French police and military remain vigilant. The operation is being bolstered by support from a Frontex spotter plane and a French warship, both of which are contributing to the 24-hour surveillance and enforcement operation along the northern French coast.

This latest intervention highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities as they try to manage the migrant crisis, with many individuals still determined to make the treacherous journey despite the risks.