French authorities on Tuesday dismantled a makeshift camp in Calais known as the “jungle,” used as a base for illegal migrants trying to reach Britain across the Channel.

There were scenes of rage and upset as police arrived at the site and began moving in on the camp and its inhabitants. Officers also had minor scuffles with some protesters who shouted angrily while dozens of journalists looked on.

Several activists set up a human chain around the refugees.

Most of the asylum seekers are from Afghanistan, many having reached the northern French town after dangerous journeys across Asia and Europe, by foot or hidden in trucks and boats.

According to reports, 278 illegal migrants, including 132 declaring themselves as children, were detained in the operation and taken to immigration detention centers.

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