Home   Dover   News   Article

17 migrants from Iran and Iraq brought to Dover overnight

Two more migrant incidents have happened overnight.

They involved a total 17 people on vessels on the Channel heading towards the UK.

Dover View of Western Docks development from Western Heights. Library picture
Dover View of Western Docks development from Western Heights. Library picture

In the first case, at around 10.40pm yesterday, Border Force stopped a RHIB (rigid-hulled inflatable boat).

The 12 males on board said they were Iraqi and Iranian.

At around 12.15am today Border Force intercepted another RHIB with five men who presented themselves as Iranian nationals.

A Home Office spokesman said: "The people from both boats were taken to Dover where they were medically assessed before being interviewed by immigration officials.

One of the individuals from the first boat was found to be a minor and will be transferred into the care of social services.

"Their cases will be dealt with according to the immigration rules."

These incidents are the latest in a long line over the last year, involving migrants trying to reach the UK by small craft.

There have also been incidents off and on the coast of Deal, Folkestone, Hythe, Romney Marsh and Thanet.

On Monday a migrant swimming in the Channel had to be rescued by the ferry Pride of Canterbury.

That was at the end of a rush of five migrant incidents in four days involving a total 75 people rescued or intercepted in that time.

Read more: All the latest news from Kent

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More