Two people are dead after a boat carrying migrants sinks in the English Channel

Authorities said a search operation was launched after a member of the public spotted a life jacket at sea.

During the initial search, approximately 48 people were found, and two unconscious people were transferred to the rescue ship and given first aid.

They were later confirmed dead in Calais.

Two boats and a helicopter were used in the rescue operation, and a medical team was sent to Calais.

Authorities added that those rescued are being cared for by land rescue services and border police, and the search for others who may remain missing at sea continues.

According to UN agencies, 2024 has already become the deadliest year for migrants crossing the English Channel.

On September 3, six children and a pregnant woman were among 12 people who died after a boat carrying dozens of people sank off the coast of France.

A month later, four people, including a two-year-old boy, died after being apparently “trampled to death” on two separate boats.

The latest sinking brings the total number of deaths caused by migrants trying to cross the English Channel this year to at least 55.

On October 18, 647 migrants crossed the English Channel on 10 small boats, bringing the total number of arrivals in 2024 to 28,204.

This figure is almost 8% higher than at the same point last year, but 25% lower than the peak year of 2022.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he will take tougher measures to “crash” gangs that smuggle people into the UK.