A record 125 people crossed the Channel in a single small boat, surpassing previous attempts, with at least 27 deaths this year from such crossings. Despite increased efforts and resources from France and the UK, crossings continue at a high rate, prompting political pressure and calls to restore order to immigration systems.
Two Somali women died during a failed attempt to cross the English Channel from France, where about 100 people set out on makeshift boats, highlighting the ongoing dangers and humanitarian issues surrounding migrant crossings into the UK.
The UK has imposed asset freezes and travel bans on 25 individuals and entities involved in people-smuggling, including gang leaders and small boat suppliers, as part of efforts to curb Channel crossings. Despite these measures, experts suggest the impact may be limited due to the scale of smuggling networks, and crossings continue to rise, with over 21,000 migrants arriving by small boats in 2023 so far.