Kayaks that can be used by migrants to cross the Channel have been withdrawn from sale in Decathlon stores in Calais and Grande-Synthe, the sign said on Tuesday, confirming information from the
Voix du Nord.
Read alsoMigrants: dismantling of the Grande-Synthe camp
"
The purchase of these kayaks will no longer be possible
" in the stores of Calais (Pas-de-Calais) and Grande-Synthe, near Dunkirk (Nord), "
in reaction to the current context
", told the AFP the Decathlon press service.
A use that could "endanger"
These articles are "
diverted from their sporting use
" and "
can be used as boats to cross the Channel
" according to the company, which indicates that "
it is not the conception which is given to these products, nor their primary utility
" . The sign specializing in sporting goods justifies this withdrawal by a use that "
could endanger the lives of people who use them as part of a crossing.
"She indicates that the decision was taken"
at the store
"and"
validated by the company
".
The company adds that these kayaks remain available for sale online and in other stores, and specifies that "
products that improve safety at sea such as vests, oars or thermal protection will always be available for sale
”in Calais and Grande-Synthe.
Read also Channel: three migrants missing in an attempt to cross
Three migrants were reported missing on Friday after attempting to cross the Channel on kayaks to England, amid a new record for Channel crossings on board small boats.
Two kayaks were found adrift off Calais on Thursday, and two castaways rescued by the gendarmerie.
