Recent Rescues of Migrants in the Strait of Dover
In a series of operations, over 100 migrants were rescued in the Strait of Dover as authorities responded to multiple distress calls. On February 8, 2023, the CROSS Gris-Nez received reports of migrant boats departing from Dunkirk. In the early hours of February 9, the tug ‘Abeille Normandie’ rescued three individuals from one boat, bringing them safely to Boulogne-sur-Mer, where they received medical assistance from shore teams.
Later that same day, another migrant boat was reported in distress. The CROSS deployed the patrol boat ‘P 607-Yser’ and the customs vessel ‘DFP2-Kermorvan’ to locate the boat. After the vessel’s engine failed, the lifeboat from ‘P 607-Yser’ was launched, successfully rescuing all 66 individuals aboard. They were then taken to the port of Calais for medical support and care from local emergency services.
Additional Rescue Missions Yield Positive Outcomes
On December 13, 2022, CROSS Gris-Nez responded to further reports of migrant boats in the Strait of Dover. A wide range of resources were deployed, including naval vessels, helicopters, and lifeboats. Around 8:15 a.m., a migrant boat was spotted in Leffrinckoucke. The lifeboat ‘SNS 7-035’ rescued one migrant who needed help and transported him to Dunkirk for assistance from emergency services.
By 10:50 a.m., another vessel was reported near Sangatte. The ‘VB Abeille Normandie’ and ‘SNS 077’ were sent to monitor the situation. When four individuals fell overboard, swift action was taken. The ‘SNS 077’ rescued two, while the other two were saved by ‘VB Abeille Normandie’. All four were then transported to Calais for medical care.
As the day progressed, more boats were reported in trouble. By 2:14 p.m., a migrant boat was spotted in the Grand Fort Philippe channel. The ‘Ridens’ patrol boat rescued 28 migrants after their vessel encountered engine problems. They were safely taken to Calais and handed over to local rescue services.
Over 10,000 Migrants Died Trying to Reach Spain by Sea in 2024
