Sudanese woman and 16-year-old girl reportedly die trying to cross Channel
Summary
Two Sudanese women, one aged 16 and the other in her 20s, died trying to cross the English Channel in a boat that ran aground near Boulogne, France. Around 82 people were on the boat; some survivors suffered serious injuries, and a judicial investigation has started into the incident.Key Facts
- The boat carrying 82 asylum seekers drifted and ran aground near Neufchâtel-Hardelot after engine failure.
- Two female Sudanese asylum seekers, including a 16-year-old girl, were found dead inside the boat.
- Three survivors have critical burns from a mix of engine fuel and sea water; 14 others were injured.
- Rescue efforts saved 17 people at sea; 65 remained on board until the boat grounded.
- A three-year UK-France deal, costing £662 million, aims to stop small boat Channel crossings and reduce deaths.
- French patrols increase but only intervene with boats under 20 people to avoid risking lives on overcrowded vessels.
- Over 550 people reportedly crossed the Channel on small boats during the weekend.
- Refugee groups called for a public inquiry into UK spending to stop these crossings; the Home Office expressed sorrow and committed to preventing dangerous journeys.
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