World News

Hundreds of migrants cross English Channel to UK after ten-day lull

Nearly 500 people arrived in Kent on Thursday, ending a brief pause in Channel crossings.

Updated Aug 28, 2026 · 14:30 UTC1 reports

The short version

A total of 494 migrants crossed the English Channel in seven boats on Thursday, marking the first successful crossings since August 17.
Despite the new arrivals, overall crossings for the year remain significantly lower than in recent years.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated she will not be complacent and highlighted recent enforcement efforts on French beaches and overseas.

On Thursday, 494 migrants crossed the English Channel in seven vessels and were brought to the Border Security Command compound in Dover, Kent.[BBC News]
The arrivals ended a 10-day period without any successful migrant crossings, which had lasted since August 17.[BBC News]
Total migrant crossings for this year stand at 16,391, representing a 43% decrease compared to the same period last year and a 17% drop from 2024.[BBC News]
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood credited increased enforcement on French beaches and overseas, along with new legislation, for addressing illegal routes.[BBC News]