French police observed dozens of migrants, including a baby and several toddlers, boarding a dinghy destined for England, according to reports from August 9, 2026. The vessel, which had reportedly been tracked by French authorities for over nine hours, was seen picking up multiple groups of passengers along the French coast.
The dinghy appears to have been launched near Dieppe around 4 a.m., a departure point further south than usual, suggesting people smugglers are utilizing new locations to avoid routine police searches. A French coastguard vessel reportedly followed the boat, but only as a precaution in case of sinking.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the migrants board the boat near Camiers beach around noon. Among those seen embarking was a baby described as only months old, alongside other young children, women, and men. A photographer present at the scene stated that three police officers, identified as gendarmes in military attire, were present but only filmed the activity. He reported being threatened with arrest if he continued taking pictures.
Separately, reports indicate that sporting goods stores in the northern French towns of Calais and Dunkirk have become central to the operations of gangs smuggling people into Britain. Migrants are reportedly purchasing life jackets in large quantities from these retailers. These garments, costing around €17.99 (£15.40), offer minimal protection for the dangerous sea crossings.
The supply chain for these items is described as international, extending to China, and profiting from the desperation of migrants.
