Channel Crossings Surge as Nearly 1,800 Migrants Arrive Since Thursday

Channel Crossings Surge as Nearly 1,800 Migrants Arrive Since Thursday
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Almost 1,800 migrants have crossed the English Channel in small boats since Thursday, according to media reports. The renewed surge follows a two-week spell of bad weather that had largely halted crossings from northern France. Improved conditions early Thursday enabled smuggling gangs to launch several boats, with 621 people arriving that day in nine dinghies. By Friday, the total had risen to 1,269, and around 500 more migrants reportedly reached the UK on Saturday — marking the third consecutive day of crossings.

The new arrivals bring the total number of Channel migrants so far this year to more than 38,700, surpassing the 36,816 recorded throughout 2024. Maritime sources attributed the spike to calmer seas rather than any change in policy, noting that crossings consistently increase when weather improves.

Border Force vessels Ranger and Defender were seen docking in Dover on Saturday morning, carrying about 226 migrants between them. Additional boats were still at sea later in the day.
A Home Office spokesperson described the crossings as “shameful,” emphasizing ongoing efforts to deter illegal migration, including cooperation with France and the removal of more than 35,000 individuals living unlawfully in the UK.