Another person has lost their life this morning attempting to make the perilous trip across the Channel in a small boat rammed with around 50 people.
According to reports from French authorities, a 40-year-old man suffered a cardiac arrest after leaving the French coast en route to Kent in the early hours of the morning.
He was in a boat which apparently deflated just minutes into the journey. As the terrified passengers swam back to shore, the victim collapsed.
Emergency teams attempted to resuscitate him but to no avail.
It brings the grim total of those losing their lives trying to make the crossing to 57.
On Saturday, despite the danger inherent in making the crossing, one boat completed its journey with 64 people on board.
Speaking earlier this week, the Refugee Council’s chief executive, Enver Solomon said: “Each death is a reminder that those making these perilous journeys are desperate people, fleeing conflict, persecution, and war, simply seeking safety and a future free from fear.
“This year has already become the deadliest for Channel crossings, with more than 50 lives lost. We should not accept the frequency and scale of loss as inevitable.
“The government must do everything possible to break this cycle of death by adopting a comprehensive strategy that includes disrupting smuggling networks, while also ensuring safe and legal pathways for those seeking asylum and working closely with European partners.”
