Stereotyping a factor in loss of life in deadliest Channel crossing, inquiry told

Issa Mohamed Omar, one of just two survivors of the 24 November 2021 incident, said he felt they were treated like animals. Photograph: The Cranston Inquiry/PA

Survivors and bereaved relatives have told an inquiry into the biggest ever loss of life in a migrant dinghy in the Channel that they believe stereotyping them as “foreigners” contributed to the failure to rescue them before the majority died.

The Cranston inquiry into how at least 27 people drowned on 24 November 2021 heard that survivors believed many on board could have been saved if rescue had been sent more quickly.