A major rescue operation was launched in the English Channel on Tuesday after a large dinghy carrying around 160 migrants burst into flames in French waters. The incident occurred at approximately 6am, prompting an immediate response from British and French coastguards, alongside the RNLI Eastbourne.
As many as 11 vessels responded to the emergency, with 157 people successfully rescued and brought ashore at Boulogne-sur-Mer. The so-called "mega dinghy" caught fire in French waters, leading to a coordinated effort between UK and French authorities.
Coordinated rescue effort
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 added: "A small boat caught fire at the border between French and British waters, leading its occupants to jump into the water."
According to the Express, it remains unclear whether any fatalities have occurred, though French media reports suggest a number of those rescued are suffering from hypothermia.
Expert calls it a miracle
One maritime security expert, speaking to GB News, described the outcome as a "miracle" that no deaths have been reported, saying: "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."
Rising use of mega dinghies
According to The Express, a vessel transporting 160 individuals is believed to represent the second-largest crossing documented in the Channel. The deployment of "mega dinghies" has reportedly escalated in recent months.
Only last month, 165 migrants are reported to have arrived in the UK aboard a single vessel. Border Security Command was observed pulling the dinghy into Dover on 24 July.
In comments to LBC, a Home Office spokesperson described the crossing as a "stark reminder" concerning "criminal gangs" who 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."
