Two Men Charged After Migrant Deaths in Pas-de-Calais Crossing

The individuals are accused of organizing a dangerous boat crossing that resulted in two drownings, highlighting the escalating risks of migrant sea journeys.

Two men, aged 19 and 36, have been charged with aggravated involuntary manslaughter for their alleged involvement in a failed migrant crossing near Berck-sur-Mer, Pas-de-Calais.
The attempted crossing involved a severely overloaded 'taxi boat' carrying 33 passengers, with two migrants drowning during the chaotic boarding process.
French authorities report that 6,310 migrants were rescued at sea in Pas-de-Calais in 2024, a 30% increase from the previous year, amid growing attempts to reach the UK.
The number of migrant deaths in the region reached a record 78 in 2024, attributed to overcrowded and unseaworthy boats, extended journey durations, and harsh conditions.
Organizations assisting migrants argue that heightened border surveillance has pushed migrants to take increasingly perilous routes, exacerbating the crisis.