UK border force rescues 50 migrants in canoes

They were found in the English Channel and brought to the Kentish shore

DOVER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 29: Uk Border Force boats patrol Dover Harbour as British immigration minister Caroline Nokes visits Uk Border force staff at Dover Marina on December 29, 2018 in Dover, England. The growing number of migrants attempting to cross the English Channel has been declared a "major incident" by UK home secretary Sajid Javid. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
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As many as 50 migrants in small boats and canoes in the English Channel are reportedly being rescued by the UK border force.

Local outlet Kent Online quoted one witness who counted 50 people being brought to the shore in Dover, some in canoes, by officials.

“HM Coastguard has been coordinating a search and rescue response to a number of incidents off Kent, working with Border Force, Kent Police and other partners,” a coastguard spokesperson said.

"We are committed to safeguarding life around the seas and coastal areas of this country.

"HM Coastguard is only concerned with preservation of life, rescuing those in trouble and bringing them safely back to shore, where they will be handed over to the relevant partner emergency services or authorities."

Last weekend UK authorities stopped 47 migrants, who were Iranian or Iraqi nationals.

At least 976 people, including about 89 children, have crossed the Channel in small boats since November 3, 2018.