A major rescue operation was underway in the English Channel after a dinghy carrying around 160 migrants caught fire in French waters on Tuesday morning. The emergency response was triggered at approximately 6am when the so-called "mega-dinghy" burst into flames in the French search and rescue region.
Rescue Efforts and Coordination
Coastguard teams from both Britain and France, along with the RNLI Eastbourne, were dispatched to recover those on board and transport them to France. A total of 11 vessels were involved in the response, with 157 individuals rescued and brought to Boulogne-sur-Mer.
A coastguard spokesperson confirmed: "A vessel caught fire earlier this morning whilst in the French search and rescue region. UK vessels and a lifeboat are assisting."
French Authorities and Casualties
French authorities stated: "A small boat caught fire at the border between French and British waters, leading its occupants to jump into the water." It remains unclear whether there have been any fatalities, though French media reports indicate some people are being treated for hypothermia.
A maritime security specialist told GB News it's a "miracle" no deaths have been confirmed, commenting: "This was a massive rescue effort by both the British and French, working together at speed. Multiple Border Security Command vessels, alongside the RNLI and their French counterparts, were able to pull these people to safety in a relatively short period of time. Quite frankly, it's miraculous that no one has died, although searches in the area have been continuing."
Context and Concerns
According to The Express, a single vessel transporting 160 individuals is believed to be the second-largest on record in the Channel. The deployment of "mega dinghies" is reported to have increased significantly in recent months. Last month alone, 165 migrants are understood to have arrived in the UK aboard a single boat. Border Security Command was observed towing the dinghy into Dover on July 24.
In comments to LBC, a Home Office spokesman described the crossing as a "stark reminder" of "criminal gangs" that have "no regard for the safety of those they claim to help". They continued: "The reality is clear and lives are being lost in the Channel."
