NCA arrests Sudanese suspect after four migrant deaths in Channel crossing
The UK National Crime Agency (NCA) arrested a 27-year-old Sudanese national this morning on suspicion of endangering life during an illegal sea crossing. The arrest follows the deaths of four migrants, two men and two women, who died attempting to board a water taxi used by smugglers in the English Channel. The incident occurred off the coast of Saint Etienne au Mont, near Boulogne-sur-Mer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boulogne-sur-Mer close to Calais. Thirty-eight migrants were returned to France, while 74 continued to the UK. The suspect was apprehended at Manston processing centre, Kent, under powers granted by the Border, Security, Asylum and Immigration Act. NCA officers are conducting interviews with the suspect and those who completed the journey. The agency is collaborating with French prosecutors, who are leading the investigation into the four fatalities and the circumstances around the boat launch. UK Migration Minister Mike Tapp reaffirmed the government’s intention to disrupt smuggling operations and bring responsible parties to justice using enhanced legal powers. The case underscores continued enforcement efforts against dangerous smuggling attempts across the Channel. The suspect remains in police custody as the NCA and French authorities pursue inquiries into the tragic event.
