Additional Coverage:
A heartbreaking tragedy occurred in the English Channel, resulting in the deaths of four migrants.
A 2-year-old boy was “trampled to death” on an overcrowded boat, which had nearly 90 people on board. Three adults also died on a separate boat, likely due to crushing and drowning.
French authorities opened criminal investigations and condemned the human trafficking gangs responsible for these deaths.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau vowed stronger action against these gangs, blaming them for the “blood of these people on their hands.”
The boy was born in Germany to a Somali mother, and officials raised concerns about smugglers separating children from their parents.
Between Thursday and Saturday, French officials prevented 31 Channel crossing attempts and rescued 250 migrants at sea.