An estimated 125 migrants crossed the English Channel on one “mega dinghy” on Saturday, September 27th. This is the largest known number of people ever to arrive on a single boat.
The crossing was part of a weekend surge, with almost 900 migrants making the journey from France on Saturday, September 27, and another 400 on Sunday, September 28, taking advantage of favorable weather conditions.
Authorities warn that the use of larger dinghies by people smugglers is a “game changer,” increasing the risk of overcrowding and fatalities. Border Force vessels intercepted 203 migrants over the weekend, including 125 from the mega dinghy and 78 from a second boat.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the crossings as “utterly unacceptable” and said removals have begun under a deal with France, emphasizing that protecting the UK border is a top priority.
