More than 180 people were rescued and five died as they tried to cross the English Channel over the weekend in icy seas and sub-zero temperatures, French authorities said.
The marine prefecture has been on alert since Friday, carrying out at least four rescue operations and announcing that five people were killed off the coast of Vimereux in the Pas-de-Calais early Sunday morning.
“A total of 182 people were rescued offshore by French resources during the night and day of January 14, 2024, from January 13 to January 14, 2024,” the prefecture said in a statement on Monday.
Jacques Billand, the maritime governor of the Pas-de-Calais region, told reporters that it was a “very violent event” but that authorities would remain on alert until Wednesday, when freezing temperatures and snow are expected. . And schooly water.
“In the face of this situation, we will not give up. Law enforcement is fully mobilized to combat sea crossings and save lives.”
As more migrants attempt to journey into the cold, there are growing concerns that they risk dying within minutes if they fall into the sea.
“Criminal smuggler networks are resorting to ever more dangerous methods, including during the winter months, exposing migrants to unnecessary risks,” Vilant said. Water temperature is 7℃. If sunk, lifespan is limited to 10 minutes. ”
Jean-Luc Dubert, the mayor of Vimereux, said: “We are suffering from human trafficking. At a political level, we will have to change the situation and bang our fists on the table with the British.
“Today's immigrants want to go to Britain, where they are welcome and where they can work without any problems. We must go back to the table with England and rework the Le Touquet Agreement. [agreements signed in 2003, which provide for the strengthening of border controls].
“Even if we put more resources into it, it will continue… there is no solution. Of course, smugglers are murderers, criminals. But our dead, those responsible are also British It's a strong word, but that's how I believe. I asked the congressman to schedule a meeting with Gerard Darmanin. [the French interior minister]Because here at Wimeroo, we are fed up with this situation. ”
Fifty-nine people were rescued from a stranded boat off the coast of Neufchatel-Aldereau during the day on Saturday, about 15 miles (25 kilometers) south of Vimeru.
According to the prefecture, the crew of the patrol vessel Abeille Normandie initially rescued 33 people from the ship.
“Several people still on board refused assistance from French aid agencies and continued sailing. The Abbeille Normandie continued to monitor the boat in conjunction with Cross Grines, but the boat stopped again. “The Abeille Normandie then rescued 26 people from the wreck. 59 people were later brought alongside Boulogne-sur-Mer,” the prefecture said.