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A number of individuals were saved by lifeboat teams after attempting to cross the Channel in a small boat.
There is currently no confirmation on the presence of injuries or the exact number of individuals involved.
The coastguard helicopter and the RNLI were among the notified parties.
Images of the location depicted clusters of individuals being transported to Dungeness, Kent, via a lifeboat operated by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
A single individual was photographed being transported from the beach on a stretcher.
A spokesperson for the UK government stated that there is an ongoing reaction taking place in the Channel, within French waters.
The French authorities are taking charge and we will not be providing any additional comments at this time.
A representative from the RNLI stated that a lifeboat from the organization was assigned this afternoon and the rescue is currently in progress.
A representative from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency stated that they are collaborating with the French Coastguard to manage a situation involving a small vessel in the French search and rescue area. They are also working with Border Force and other partners.
The HM Coastguard will collaborate with other organizations to assist individuals in need of help in the UK’s seas and coastal regions.
After receiving reports that a small boat carrying 60 individuals capsized just two hours after departing from Neufchatel-Hardelot, it was discovered that two migrants had tragically drowned on Wednesday.
Steve Valdez-Symonds, Director of Refugee and Migrant Rights at Amnesty International UK, expressed sadness over the loss of life and extended condolences to the family and friends of those who have passed away.
“The incoming Home Secretary must be the one to confront reality.”
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“People will persist in trying perilous Channel crossings as long as they lack secure means to seek fair and efficient asylum procedures on both sides of the water – including safe pathways to the UK for those with family and other ties already present.”
“We implore ministers to shift their focus towards taking responsibility for asylum, rather than trying to evade it entirely. The UK must acknowledge its role in providing safety and inspire other countries to do the same.”
The chief executive of the Refugee Council, Enver Solomon, stated that this is another tragic and avoidable event that highlights the pressing need for safe pathways for individuals from countries like Afghanistan. This would prevent them from embarking on perilous journeys across the world’s busiest shipping lane.
Source: independent.co.uk
