The Marine Accident Investigation Branch has launched an investigation into the sinking of a migrant boat in the Channel

Four people died when the boat sank back in December

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch has launched an investigation into the sinking of a migrant boat in the Channel in which four people died.

The four were pronounced dead following a major rescue operation off the Kent coast in the early hours of December 14 after reports of a boat in distress.

Another 39 people were safely brought to shore during the rescue, which involved the Royal Navy, French navy, Coastguard, RNLI lifeboats, ambulance service and police.

A spokesperson for the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said: “The MAIB has launched an investigation into the sinking of a migrant boat in UK waters while it was attempting to cross the English Channel on 14th December 2022, resulting in four confirmed fatalities.

“The focus of the investigation will be on the UK’s emergency response. The mechanism for the foundering of the small boat will also be explored.”

Published: 14/02/2023 by Radio NewsHub