An outboard motor was found when the couple’s home was searched after their arrest. There were also several “nautical goods” in the name of the two at a water sports store, according to the Marechaussee. The items have been confiscated.
The two were brought before the examining magistrate on Thursday. The man has been detained for fourteen days, the woman has been released again, but remains a suspect in the case.
The Marechaussee further reports that the crossing to the United Kingdom is dangerous due to the heavy shipping traffic, strong currents and “the fact that dinghies are not suitable to complete this crossing safely.” There are often too many people in it, which makes navigating and controlling the rubber boat extra difficult, according to the Marechaussee. “The refugees usually have no experience at sea, and are left to their own devices by the people smugglers.”