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French coastguard rescues more than 100 migrants crossing Channel
The French coastguard rescued 106 people in a single boat after it broke down in the English Channel. Authorities first became aware of the stricken vessel on April 25, 2026, and took those rescued to Calais in the early hours of April 26. In Wimereux, seven people were helped during boarding, including a woman who was helicopter evacuated; a separate incident later rescued six more people, bringing the total to 119. The report notes ongoing dangers in the Channel, with weather and currents, and mentions a recent UK-France deal to curb crossings as context.
Why It Matters
Shows ongoing migrant crossings in the Channel and the operational and policy responses by France and its partners.
Timeline
3 Events
Six more migrants rescued in a separate incident; total reported at 119
April 27, 2026
Another six people were rescued in a separate incident, taking the total to 119.
106 migrants rescued from stricken boat; seven aided during boarding; helicopter evacuation of a woman
April 26, 2026
The coastguard rescued 106 people travelling in a single boat after it broke down. Seven people who had difficulty climbing into the boat in the Wimereux area were helped, including a woman who lost consciousness and was evacuated by helicopter. The survivors were taken to Calais in the early hours of Sunday.
Awareness of stricken vessel reported in Wimereux area
April 25, 2026
French authorities first became aware of the stricken vessel in the Wimereux area.