Four migrants drown in channel crossing attempt off France’s northern coast

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Four migrants drowned overnight in the Channel near Boulogne-sur-Mer on France's northern coast while attempting to cross to Britain, French maritime police reported on Friday.

A navy patrol boat responded to the scene after being alerted that several migrants had fallen into the sea during their crossing attempt, maritime police informed Agence France-Presse (AFP).

Four individuals were winched from the water by helicopter but were pronounced dead. However, other migrants were successfully rescued, the police added.

This incident brings 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 trying to undertake 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 perilous 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 continue to pose significant threats to those desperate enough to make the journey.

Source: Agence France-Presse