Asylum seeker aboard UK’s Bibby Stockholm barge dies

An individual has died aboard the Bibby Stockholm barge, utilized by the British authorities to accommodate asylum seekers.

Two care teams working to assist migrants on the vessel — moored in Portland, Dorset — confirmed to POLITICO Tuesday that one of many individuals aboard had died. 

The U.Okay.’s House Workplace stated: “We’re conscious of reporting of an incident involving an asylum seeker on the Bibby Stockholm. 
 
“It could be inappropriate to remark additional at the moment.”

Steve Smith, CEO of refugee charity Care4Calais, stated the group’s “ideas are with the one that has misplaced their life, their household and their mates. Additionally it is with all these caught on board the Bibby Stockholm who will likely be experiencing a deep feeling of grief and fear as we speak.”

The U.Okay. authorities deployed the Bibby Stockholm over the summer season amid deep controversy.

It argued the usage of the barge would reduce the mounting price of housing asylum seekers in motels whereas their claims are processed, and would deter individuals from making harmful crossings to the U.Okay.

Considerations in regards to the welfare of these aboard have beforehand been raised by teams working with asylum seekers. Smith urged the U.Okay. authorities Tuesday to “take accountability for this human tragedy.”

This growing story is being up to date.