Arrest after fatal crossing of Channel

Officers from the National Crime Agency have arrested a man in connection with the Channel crossing that left a woman dead in France on Sunday.

French authorities were alerted to a boat in trouble in the Channel in the early hours of the morning and responded to the scene. A woman was recovered and taken to hospital by helicopter, but later died.

The boat continued its journey to the UK, arriving in Dover with about 40 people on board.

Last night (Monday 29 July) a 29-year-old Egyptian national was arrested by NCA detectives in Manston, Kent.

He was questioned on suspicion of facilitating illegal immigration and was released on bail pending further inquiries.

The NCA continues to work with French authorities to determine the circumstances leading to the fatal accident.

NCA Branch Commander Mark Howes said: “This tragedy highlights the dangers of these border crossings and our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased. Together with partners, we remain determined to do all we can to target, disrupt and dismantle the criminal networks involved in organised immigration crime and prevent them from exploiting the desperation of others.”

July 30, 2024