At least five migrants died in an attempt to cross the English Channel from France to the UK, according to French local media.

Reuters cited local newspaper La Voix du Nord when it reported that the migrants began their attempt from an area near Wimereux.

The French coast guard confirmed that there was a failed attempt to cross the channel, saying that police were operating at a beach following the incident on Tuesday morning (Apr. 23) and that several "lifeless bodies" were discovered.

Local police did not immediately reply to reporters' requests for comment.

The Channel between France and Britain is one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, and the strong currents make crossing on small boats dangerous.

People smugglers typically overload rickety dinghies, leaving them barely afloat and at risk of being lashed by the waves as they try to reach British shores.

The incident also happened as British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Rwanda bill, which stipulated an alleged deterrent to migrants and asylum seekers, passed at the country's parliament at Westminster and awaited royal permission from Buckingham Palace.