Tragic incident leaves at least 89 migrants dead in boat capsizing off Mauritania

Nearly 90 migrants bound for Europe tragically lost their lives when their boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania earlier this week, with dozens more still missing. The Mauritanian coast guard recovered the bodies of 89 individuals from a large traditional fishing boat that sank in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately four kilometers from the city of Ndiago in the country's southwest region. Survivors revealed that the boat had departed from the Senegal-Gambia border with 170 passengers, leaving 72 individuals unaccounted for. Among the rescued were nine people, including a five-year-old girl. The treacherous Atlantic route, known for its strong currents, sees migrants embarking on perilous journeys in overcrowded and often unseaworthy vessels lacking sufficient provisions. Despite the dangers, this route has gained popularity due to heightened security measures in the Mediterranean. The Spanish government reported a significant increase in migrant arrivals at the Canary Islands, reaching a record 39,910 in 2023. While the Canary Islands are relatively close to North Africa, many migrants set sail from countries like Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Gambia, and Senegal, facing immense risks along the way. The International Organization for Migration highlighted the extreme hazards faced by migrants crossing the Atlantic Ocean, emphasizing the lack of dedicated rescue operations in this vast expanse of water. The tragic incident off the Mauritanian coast underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis as thousands of West African migrants risk their lives each year in pursuit of better opportunities in Europe. The alarming number of deaths at sea, particularly on the Atlantic route, serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by those seeking a better future through irregular migration.