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France to Start Sea Interceptions Targeting Channel ‘Taxi-Boats’

Officials present the prosecutor‑coordinated plan as a life‑preserving response to evolving smuggler tactics.

Overview

  • The maritime prefecture says the gendarmerie maritime will launch “control and intervention” operations at sea targeting suspected taxi‑boats.
  • Officials intend to act before passengers board to avoid endangering lives, with a start described as “soon” and no date announced.
  • The work is being coordinated with prosecutors, according to Boulogne‑sur‑Mer prosecutor Cécile Gressier.
  • The prefecture says nets to stop boats are not being considered at this stage after rights‑group objections to reported proposals.
  • The shift follows pressure from the UK, as crossings exceed 39,000 this year and at least 27 people have died attempting the route.