At least 89 migrants died after their boat capsized off Mauritania’s coast on Monday, according to a Mauritanian state-run news agency on Thursday. The agency reported that Mauritanian Coast Guard officers recovered the bodies from a large traditional fishing boat that overturned. Nine individuals, including a five-year-old girl, were rescued.
Survivors revealed that the boat, which left the Gambia-Senegal border six days prior, was carrying migrants heading to Europe. They confirmed the boat had 170 passengers, leaving 72 still unaccounted for.
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The incident occurred about four kilometers (2.5 miles) off the coast near the southwestern city of Ndiago in the Atlantic Ocean, as reported by the state-run organization.
Every year, thousands of West African migrants risk dangerous crossings of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea in search of better opportunities in Europe. The Atlantic route is especially perilous due to strong currents, making it hazardous for migrants who often travel in overcrowded and poorly maintained boats.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) noted in its 2024 report that the Atlantic crossing is particularly treacherous due to the journey’s long duration to Europe. Migrants frequently find themselves stranded at sea for extended periods in inadequate vessels and areas with limited rescue operations.
The situation is still developing, and more updates are expected as additional information becomes available.
