More than a dozen migrants have tragically lost their lives, with at least 150 others still missing after their boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania while en route to Europe. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the incident occurred near the Mauritanian capital, Nouakchott, with a total of 300 migrants on board. Fortunately, 120 individuals have been rescued by the Mauritanian Coast Guard, but the search for the missing continues.
The migrants were traveling on artisanal fishing boats, known as pirogues, which are vulnerable to strong winds and Atlantic currents. Despite the risks, a surge of migrants from West Africa has been attempting the perilous journey to Spain's Canary Islands via this route. While some manage to survive, many perish or disappear during the voyage, with tragic consequences.
Among the survivors rescued, four unaccompanied and separated children were identified. Additionally, 10 survivors required medical attention and were promptly referred to hospitals for treatment. The migrants embarking on these journeys are often driven by a desire to escape poverty and instability in their home countries, with hopes for a better future in Europe.
This year alone, nearly 20,000 migrants have arrived irregularly in the Canary Islands using the Mauritania route, a significant increase compared to the same period last year. The IOM highlighted that in 2023, at least 1,950 migrants lost their lives on this treacherous route, making it the second-deadliest year on record.
