At least 12 dead, including women and girls, after migrant boat sinks in English Channel

Helicopters, boats used for search of survivors after vessel encountered difficulties

At least 12 people, including 10 women and girls, have died after a migrant boat carrying dozens tore apart in the English Channel, according to local authorities.

The mayor of Le Portel, a French coastal town involved in the rescue operation, reported that "the bottom of the boat ripped open."

French coastguards rescued over 65 people, with several requiring emergency medical treatment.

Figures show at least 2,109 migrants have tried to make the trip in small boats in the past seven days, according to the latest Home Office data.

France's Interior Minister, Gérald Darmanin, confirmed the death toll, noting that only eight of the 70 passengers had lifejackets.

UK officials have called the incident "horrifying" and emphasized the urgent need to dismantle smuggler networks responsible for the tragedy.