More migrants die trying to cross Channel to UK

A discarded life vest lays on the beach in Hardelot, France, following a failed attempt by people thought to be migrants to board a small boatplaceholder image
A discarded life vest lays on the beach in Hardelot, France, following a failed attempt by people thought to be migrants to board a small boat

The group were found dead on a boat off the coast of Dunkirk on Thursday morning.

Three migrants have died while trying to reach the UK after one of the busiest days for Channel crossings this year.

The group were found dead on a boat off the coast of Dunkirk on Thursday morning, the French coastguard said.

It comes a day after Prime Minister Andy Burnham insisted the Government’s plan to curb Channel crossings was “working”, although he admitted there was “more to do”.

placeholder image

The boat was spotted at around 6am with three people on board who were found unresponsive. They were taken to shore by rescue crews before paramedics confirmed they had died, according to a translation of a statement from maritime authorities in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin.

Wednesday was one of the busiest days for crossings so far this year, with a steady stream of attempts throughout the day amid hot, sunny weather and calm conditions at sea.

Related topics:
Register
Follow us
© 2026 Formpress Publishing LTD. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice