Their bodies were pulled out of the water (Picture: Getty)
Three people are reported have drowned in what is the latest tragedy in the English Channel.
The victims – thought to be asylum seekers – fell in the water off the coast of Cap Gris-Nez, in northern France, this afternoon after their small boat got into trouble.
Their bodies were pulled out from the sea and they were pronounced dead earlier today.
Details are unclear as to how many people are involved, but Patrick Leleu, deputy prosecutor at the Judicial court of Boulogne-sur-Mer, said three people died.
‘I can confirm the death of three migrants who fell into the water this afternoon off the coast of Cap Gris Nez,’ he said.
A French Navy frigate and a French Navy patrol boat are positioned off the port of Bolougne-sur-mer, according to the Marine Traffic website.
An investigation into the incident remains ongoing and search and a search and rescue has been launched.
It comes as dozens of people made the treacherous crossing to the UK in the last 24 hours in strong winds and also thick fog.
A UK government spokesperson said: ‘We can confirm there has been an incident in the Channel involving a small boat in French waters.
‘French authorities are leading the response and investigation.’
This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.
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