World
Dutch Coast Sees First Interception of Rubber Boat Carrying 38 Men
Dutch authorities rescued 38 men who were adrift in a rubber boat off the coast of Zeeland, a province in the southwest of the Netherlands. The dinghy was found drifting without a motor and none of the occupants were wearing life vests. Military police spokesperson Doron Wallin told the Associated Press that two of the men, who are believed to be smugglers, are from Sudan, while the remaining 36 men are from Afghanistan. The two Sudanese men have been arrested on suspicion of people smuggling. Authorities do not know where the boat originated—whether from France, the Netherlands or Belgium—or its intended destination. Wallin noted that such small‑boat crossings are common between France and the United Kingdom, but it is rare for them to be found in Dutch waters. Dutch authorities will launch an investigation into the incident on Sunday.
Frequently asked questions
How many men were rescued from the rubber boat?
38 men were rescued.
What nationalities were the men on the boat?
Two men were from Sudan and the remaining 36 were from Afghanistan.
What action was taken against the Sudanese men?
The two Sudanese men were arrested on suspicion of people smuggling.