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[INTERNATIONAL] · France · 8 sources

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Paris court convicts 13 in 2021 English Channel migrant shipwreck case

A Paris criminal court has convicted 13 out of 14 defendants involved in a 2021 migrant shipwreck in the English Channel that resulted in the deaths of 31 people. The incident, which occurred on the night of November 23-24, 2021, involved an overcrowded and patched inflatable boat attempting to reach the United Kingdom from the coast of northern France.

Six defendants, including four Iraqi nationals and two Afghans, were found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and received prison sentences ranging from six to ten years. Other defendants received sentences between six months (some suspended) and four years for organized illegal stay assistance. One defendant was acquitted.

The court characterized the tragedy as an “unprecedented catastrophe” driven by profit at the expense of human life. Following the verdict, the court issued six arrest warrants for individuals who were either absent from the proceedings or in flight. Lawyers for the 112 civil parties expressed relief, stating the ruling confirms the criminal responsibility of smugglers and provides recognition for the victims.

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English Channel · Paris criminal court

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