UK-Funded French Forces and Small-Boat Migrant Crossings: Safety Concerns Raised

Investigators have documented instances where French maritime police have tried to destabilize or even sink these small boats near the northern French village of Loon-Plage. On March 12, officers were observed attempting to force migrant boats to turn around using aggressive tactics such as circling the boats, causing waves to flood the dinghies, and ramming into them while threatening passengers with a large tank of pepper spray. Search and rescue experts have expressed concern that these tactics could result in a "mass casualty event." It is important to note that this information comes from multiple sources, and there may be differing perspectives or additional details reported by each outlet.