At least three migrants died in the Channel off northern France on Sunday as a group of around 50 people tried to set off in a small boat heading for Britain, authorities said.

This government is committed to smashing these gangs.” Sunday’s tragedy comes during a spike in Channel crossing attempts as 2024 draws to a close. Officials have noted a significant increase in attempted crossings over the past few days.

Three migrants died Sunday in an attempt to cross the English Channel from France to Britain, a local mayor told AFP. The deaths take this year's casualty toll from failed clandestine crossings to a confirmed 76.

Three migrants have died attempting to cross the English Channel to the UK, with a major rescue operation underway in northern France. The emergency response began at around 6.15am on a beach in Sangatte,