More than a dozen migrants have died and at least 150 others are missing after their boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania while en route to Europe, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The incident has prompted a large-scale search and rescue operation.
On Monday, the boat carrying around 300 migrants capsized near Mauritania’s capital, Nouakchott. As of Wednesday, the IOM reported that the Mauritanian Coast Guard had rescued 120 individuals. Tragically, 15 bodies were confirmed deceased upon arrival, with search efforts still ongoing.
In recent years, a growing number of migrants have departed from West Africa, particularly Senegal, aiming to reach Spain’s Canary Islands. These migrants often travel on small, artisanal fishing boats known as pirogues, which are prone to capsizing under harsh Atlantic conditions. While many complete the perilous journey, a significant number either perish or go missing, with some remains washing up on distant shores.
Among those rescued in this latest incident were four unaccompanied minors. Additionally, 10 survivors were taken to hospitals for medical care.
The migration journey to Europe is frequently driven by desperation, with many individuals fleeing poverty and instability. For some, the decision to leave is influenced by family members seeking better opportunities.
The IOM highlighted that nearly 20,000 migrants have made the hazardous journey to the Canary Islands via Mauritania this year—almost three times the number from the same period in 2023. Last year, at least 1,950 migrants perished on this route, marking it as the second-deadliest year on record.
Tragic Boat Capsize off Mauritania Leaves Dozen Dead and 150 Missing, Intensifying Search Efforts
Source: The Newsroom Africa
