Migrant Tragedy Fallout: Dozens Risk Death on Sea Despite Recent Disaster
Just days after 27 migrants tragically drowned at sea, more desperate souls have attempted to cross the Channel under cover of darkness from France. Our sources reveal two overcrowded dinghies set off from Gravelines in the early hours of Saturday.
Two Packed Boats Spotted Off French Coast
The first vessel, a six to seven-metre dinghy packed with around 50 migrants, set off alongside a second craft carrying a similar number. French and UK coastguards were swiftly alerted and sprang into action.
Major Rescue Underway Amid Thick Fog
The French warship tracked the boats initially but has now left the scene, leaving the UK’s RNLI lifeboat from dover/" title="Dover" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Dover to tackle the rescue alone. A UK Coastguard spotter plane from Doncaster is circling overhead, assisting in pinpointing the boats.
Reports say 999 calls flooded in from desperate migrants signalling with torches towards busy shipping lanes. Weather conditions are rough, with poor visibility due to fog complicating the rescue efforts.
Updating the Crisis: Latest Rescue Figures
- 4:30am: RNLI lifeboat recovered 61 migrants plus nine crew members; dispatched again following a new sighting of 28 more.
- 5:30am: Two additional vessels carrying migrants were spotted just miles from where recent deaths occurred.
The Border Force and rescue services continue to coordinate the high-stakes recovery operation. Meanwhile, the French warship Notre Dame du Risban remains absent from the waters.
More updates to follow as this tragic saga unfolds.
