Migrant boats carrying fifty people intercepted crossing English Channel

Group of Iranian, Iraqi, Kuwaiti, Syrian and Yemeni nationals found approaching Dover

(PA)

More than 50 people have been intercepted trying to cross the English Channel.

The 49 men and four women were discovered by Border Force officials near Dover in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The group – which was made up of Iranian, Iraqi, Kuwaiti, Syrian and Yemeni nationals – were found travelling on four boats which were picked up between 2.20am and 6am.

Their crossing follows the interception of 52 migrants and refugees, including five children, in the same area on Thursday. With the arrival of British Summer Time, such crossings are expected to become more frequent from now until the late autumn.

The latest group were all taken ashore where they underwent medical checks and were passed to immigration officials, a government spokesman said.

The Home Office said the attempted crossings were reckless acts facilitated by criminals and the incidents were being investigated.

The spokesperson said Border Force and all operational staff were wearing the relevant personal protective equipment in line with Public Health England guidance during the coronavirus pandemic.