Channel crossing boat fire: 173 migrants rescued

Nightmare crossing ends in rescue

The boat was attempting to reach the UK when its engine caught fire, according to the French maritime prefecture of the Channel and North Sea.

What happened during the Channel crossing

The prefecture initially reported that 157 people had been rescued before revising the figure up to 173.

All were taken to Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France, where 11 people were treated for minor injuries. French prosecutors have opened an investigation and an Egyptian national has been taken into custody in connection with the incident.

Authorities said the boat had left France on Monday night. Overnight, five people on board required rescue while the remaining passengers refused assistance from French patrol boats, determined to reach the UK.

Border Security Minister Anna Turley said the incident, reported by BBC News, “shows the dangers of these illegal crossings and the ruthless gangs behind them. That’s why we are bearing down on them.”

The government has repeatedly pledged to dismantle the smuggling networks behind small-boat crossings, part of the wider fight over asylum and small-boat policy.

French authorities confirmed all those rescued would remain in France while the investigation continues.