Smugglers in small boats turn to Belgium's beaches
Smugglers have launched migrant small boats from beaches in Belgium away from the traditional sites around Calais and Dunkirk.
Belgian authorities say gangs are using so‑called "taxi boats" that move along the coast to pick up migrants in the water before heading towards France.
Westkust Police told the BBC there were no crossings in their zone last year and at least five this year, adding that teams are now conducting targeted checks.
The UK government has provided £1.3m to Belgian law enforcement to deter smuggling attempts.
Belgian police said in recent weeks there has been small boat activity off coastal towns including De Panne, Koksijde and Nieuwpoort.
On Wednesday night, 15 migrants were discovered near Nieuwpoort marina, police said.
A Westkust Police spokesperson said: "They were carrying a rubber inflatable boat, an outdoor motor, and jerry cans of gasoline. Of the fifteen people, only four were equipped with life jackets.
"The findings indicate that the group of men intended to cross to the United Kingdom."
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0q3pey2lpqo
they swam 14 miles