Migrant dies on Channel

A tragic incident occurred when a migrant vessel carrying over 70 people encountered difficulties while crossing the Channel from Calais to the UK, leading to the death of a woman aboard. French maritime authorities reported that 34 migrants were rescued, while approximately 40 others refused help and chose to continue their journey. This incident marks the seventh death in recent weeks, raising the total to 23 fatalities this year among those attempting the perilous crossing. Concerns have been heightened regarding the increasing risks posed by people smuggling gangs utilizing overloaded and unsafe dinghies amid stricter border enforcement. The French authorities noted this emerging trend of deaths not resulting from drowning, but rather from illness or overcrowding. Over 16,000 migrants have crossed the Channel this year, emphasizing the ongoing challenges surrounding illegal immigration in the region.