Six Afghans have tragically lost their lives, while two others remain missing at sea. The incident occurred as small boats carrying migrants, including children, capsized in the English Channel, according to British media on Sunday.
On Saturday, French prosecutors initiated a criminal investigation in response to the most recent tragedies stemming from illicit journeys organized by human traffickers.
These incidents underscore the pressing need for swift and comprehensive action to address the grave consequences of these illegal activities.
Philippe Sabatier, the Boulogne prosecutor, said the latest two disasters happened “in the early hours, in poor weather and worsening sea conditions.
“Six Afghan males died, and most of those involved were also from Afghanistan. They included minors,” he said.
A fragile vessel carrying approximately 66 individuals was observed in distress at approximately 2:00 AM, situated just off the shores of Sangatte near Calais Beach.
Five Afghan men, aged in their 20s and 30s, were declared deceased at the scene, while a sixth individual was airlifted to the hospital; however, he subsequently passed away. On Saturday, yet another small migrant boat tragically sank in the Channel. Among the passengers, twenty-two individuals were fortunately rescued, although one remains in critical condition, as reported by Sabatier.
The identities of victims remain unknown, as several were travelling without papers.
—PR
