French authorities rescue 107 migrants en route to England

French authorities rescued 107 migrants attempting to cross the English Channel to England on Christmas Day, carrying out 12 rescue operations along northern France’s coast, officials confirmed Thursday.

In the morning, 30 people were saved near Dunkirk, though some passengers continued to Britain and were taken into custody in British waters. Later, another 51 migrants were rescued from a boat with engine trouble near Dunkirk, and 26 more from a vessel struggling near Calais.

The Channel remains perilous, especially during winter, with overloaded boats at high risk, maritime authorities warned. This year, at least 73 migrants have died in Channel crossings, making 2024 the deadliest year on record.