A devastating maritime disaster has unfolded off the coast of Mauritania, leaving at least 15 dead and over 150 people missing. The incident involved a wooden fishing vessel that had embarked from The Gambia a week earlier, carrying approximately 300 individuals hoping to reach Europe.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that after enduring seven days at sea, the overcrowded boat capsized on Monday. Mauritanian coastguards have managed to rescue 120 people, but the search for survivors continues amidst challenging conditions.
This tragedy is part of a worrying trend. As Mediterranean routes face increased scrutiny, more migrants are attempting the perilous Atlantic journey to Spain’s Canary Islands. The IOM notes a staggering 160% increase in arrivals to the Canaries this year compared to last.
The capsizing coincides with the 25th anniversary of the first known migrant shipwreck en route to the Canary Islands, underlining the long-standing nature of this crisis. Experts attribute the surge in Atlantic crossings to various factors, including political unrest, rising food prices, and depleting fish stocks in West African countries.
As rescue efforts persist, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the desperate measures people will take in search of a better life, and the urgent need for safe, legal migration pathways.