A dinghy carrying 157 people has capsized in the Channel after its engine caught fire at sea. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
According to French authorities, the people were rescued from the water by French vessels aided by two British Border Security Command boats and an RNLI lifeboat, and are being taken to Boulogne-sur-Mer in France.
Some 54 of the people were taken to France on the British vessels.
It comes a day after Reform UK proposed using the Royal Navy to return migrants to France or Belgium under a plan called “operation fortress”.
Responding to the incident, the party’s leader, Nigel Farage said: “We must put a stop to this. Our plan will saves lives.”
Incident Details
The dinghy's engine caught fire at sea. The rescue operation involved French vessels and British boats. Information about the condition of the rescued individuals is not yet available.
Context
This is another incident related to migrants crossing the Channel. Previous cases of capsizing and accidents involving such boats have been recorded. Reform UK's proposal aims to stop the flow of migrants.
Rescue Operation
The rescue operation involved French vessels, two British Border Security Command boats, and an RNLI lifeboat. In total, 157 people were pulled from the water. Of these, 54 were taken to France on British vessels.
Political Reaction
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, commented on the incident, stating that their plan will save lives. He said: "We must put a stop to this."
Conclusion
This incident once again raises concerns about the safety of migrants attempting to cross the Channel. Thanks to the timely actions of rescuers, a major disaster was averted.