Chan Mathok Atak jailed for piloting overcrowded English Channel migrant boat

Chan Mathok Atak, a 19-year-old asylum seeker from South Sudan, has been sentenced to two years and three months in prison at Canterbury Crown Court. Atak pleaded guilty to endangering others during a July 23 crossing of the English Channel from France.

At the time of the incident, Atak was piloting a roughly 14-metre inflatable dinghy carrying 165 people, including 31 children. The vessel, which set a record for the largest number of migrants on a single small boat at the time, was reported to be in poor condition, with one non-functioning engine and deflating tubing. The boat was intercepted by the UK Border Force after it began taking on water.

Judge Sarah Counsell stated that while there was no evidence Atak organized the journey, those who choose to steer such vessels assume responsibility for the safety of those on board. The sentencing follows a new UK law introduced in January specifically targeting those who pilot boats used for migrant crossings. Atak may face automatic deportation upon the completion of his custodial sentence.