Migrants brought ashore at Dover on December 12. More apparently arrived this morning. (Image: PA)
Hundreds of migrants are attempting to cross the in small boats on Christmas morning.
More than 100 people arrived at Dover harbour in the early hours today, with at least four more boats currently trying to cross the waterway and others expected in the coming hours, it has been claimed.
Poor weather, which had prevented crossings for over a week, eased late on Christmas Eve, creating calmer conditions in the Channel with light winds and reduced waves.
Authorities on both sides of the Channel are on heightened alert as improved weather over the next several days could enable over 2,000 to make the crossing, reported , which shared images apparently showing people arriving this morning.
Just before 5am, the Border Force vessel Volunteer brought 110 people into harbour from two boats.
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‘It’s ideal conditions in terms of there being no waves really in the English Channel.’GB News Home and Security Editor Mark White reveals more than 100 migrants have arrived in Dover this morning after crossing the Channel.?????? Become a GB News Member:
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Foggy conditions have made the crossings particularly hazardous because big container ships and other vessels can find it difficult to see the small boats.
More than 35,000 migrants have made the dangerous journey so far in 2024, a 20% increase on last year.
In October, the number surpassed the 29,437 who crossed during the whole of last year.
One smuggler, using the name Salar, has even reportedly offered migrants a “Christmas special” deal, claiming to have 15 spaces on a small boat.
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Writing on the Telegram messaging app, he said: “From the 25th until the 29th, there will be special offers as the weather is also good – God willing, you will be in England before the new year.”
Prime Minister Sir has vowed to “smash the gangs” and resolve the small boats crisis.
The Government has signed several agreements with other countries to improve cooperation against smugglers. However, the numbers crossing show no sign of slowing.
Asked about today’s developments, a Home Office spokesperson said: “We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security.
“The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay.
“We will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.”