Desperate Migrants Risk Lives Again at Sea Despite Deadly Tragedy
Two Packed Dinghies Spotted Off French Coast
Just days after 27 migrants drowned at sea, more illegal crossings are underway. Under cover of darkness, two dinghies loaded with migrants left Gravelines, France, in the early hours of Saturday.
One boat, six to seven metres long, is believed to be carrying around 50 migrants. The second vessel is thought to hold a similar number onboard.
Coastguards Launch Major Rescue Mission
After reports were passed to both French and UK coastguards, French warships began tracking the boats. Meanwhile, a UK Coastguard Spotter plane from Doncaster joined the operation.
The UK Coastguard in dover/" title="Dover" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Dover is now leading a large-scale rescue effort. They are coordinating with Border Force, local rescue teams, and the RNLI Dover Lifeboat, which has been dispatched to assist.
Update: Lifeboat Rescues Over 60 Migrants
At 4:30am, the RNLI lifeboat reported rescuing 61 migrants and nine crew. They have been tasked to reach another group of 28 migrants spotted nearby.
Stay tuned for more updates as the rescue unfolds.
