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Person dies trying to cross the Channel in small boat

YET another migrant tragically died today after a medical emergency on a small boat in the English Channel.

The RNLI confirmed a group had been brought to Dover in a Border Force boat in the morning.

Kent Police said: “Kent Police were called at 8.26am on Friday after a Border Force patrol responded to a medical emergency on a small boat in the English Channel.

“A man has since been pronounced deceased.

“Officers have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances leading to the man’s death.

“The priority remains to establish the man’s identity in order to notify his family.

“Officers are currently at Dover Lifeboat Station while initial inquiries are under way.”

A government spokesperson said: “This morning, Border Force responded to a medical emergency on board a small boat entering UK waters.

“It is with regret that we can confirm one individual has died, and our thoughts are with them and their loved ones.”

At least 11 people have died crossing the channel this year, but there is no official data tracking the fatalities. 

Earlier this year, a report by the Refugee Council estimated that at least 69 people lost their lives trying to make the perilous journey in 2024. 

The report reiterated the need for safe and legal routes, including the expansion of eligibility for family reunion to allow child refugees in Britain to bring close family members, and the piloting of a refugee visa.

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