At least 12 migrants have died after their overcrowded dinghy capsized while they were trying to cross the Channel, reports The Times.
Several others were in a critical condition, according to La Voix du Nord, the regional newspaper. French media reported that rescue workers were still searching for migrants feared to be lost at sea.
The dinghy, which was carrying about 70 people, according to La Voix du Nord, got into trouble off Le Portel on the northern French coast. Olivier Barbarin, the mayor of Le Portel, said another ten people had been brought ashore in a state of cardiac arrest.
A French navy helicopter and the naval vessel Abeille Normandie were involved in the rescue operation. Gérald Darmanin, the French interior minister, said 12 people had died and two more were missing. He was reported to be travelling to the scene.
Barbarin said that “unfortunately, the bottom of the boat ripped open”, adding: “It’s a big drama.”