Two dead after migrant boat ‘with 50 on board’ sinks in Channel

Two people have died after a migrant boat sank in the Channel, French maritime authorities said.

The incident happened this morning off the coast of Sangatte, close to Calais.

It has been reported that around 50 migrants fell into the water shortly after 8am, about 2km from the shoreline near Calais.

At least 46 people were rescued but French authorities are continuing to seach for others still in the water.

The two victims were provided with first aid after being rescued from the water but were pronounced dead by medics when taken to Calais.

The rescue operation was launched after a life jacket was spotted in the water.

The public prosecutor’s office in nearby Boulogne-sur-Mer has launched an investigation into the incident.

Dover-Calais cross Channel services are currently affected with delays of up to 120 minutes due to the ongoing rescue operation. Vessels are currently unable to enter or leave Calais Port.

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