Two women die during attempt to cross English Channel from France

Two women believed to be from Sudan have died after a boat carrying 82 people ran aground off the coast of northern France. The incident occurred on Sunday night when the engine failed, causing the vessel to drift. Seventeen people were rescued and taken to the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer.

The remaining 65 individuals on board eventually came ashore near Neufchatel-Hardelot, approximately 12km south of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Authorities found the two women dead inside the boat, with preliminary reports suggesting they may have been crushed or asphyxiated due to overcrowding.

Thirteen people with moderate injuries and three with serious wounds, including burn victims, were taken to hospital for treatment. They will be interviewed by border police to determine their involvement in the crossing. The incident is part of a larger issue regarding small boats transporting migrants and refugees across the English Channel.

In recent months, there have been several incidents involving fatalities at sea. On April 1, two people died off Gravelines, France, while attempting to reach the UK. On April 9, four individuals lost their lives due to currents. According to official reports, at least 29 people died in the region in 2025.

A recent agreement between Britain and France aims to reduce migrant crossings. The deal includes a payment of up to £660 million ($895.8m) over three years, contingent on results. As part of this agreement, France will increase its coastal patrols, while the British government will contribute to the costs of the operation.

Source: Al Jazeera