A boat carrying hundreds of migrants capsized off the coast of The Gambia on New Year's Day, leaving at least seven people dead and 97 others missing, authorities reported, while rescue operations managed to save 96 survivors from the waters.
The vessel, believed to be headed toward Europe via the dangerous Atlantic route, overturned in waters off the West African nation. The exact circumstances leading to the capsizing remain under investigation, with survivors describing overcrowded conditions on the boat.
Gambian maritime authorities and rescue teams responded to the disaster, working through difficult conditions to locate and rescue survivors. The rescued individuals were brought to shore for medical treatment, with many suffering from hypothermia and exhaustion.
The tragedy highlights the ongoing migrant crisis as thousands of Africans attempt the perilous journey to Europe in search of better opportunities. The Atlantic route from West Africa to Spain's Canary Islands has become increasingly popular but is considered one of the world's most dangerous migration paths.
International organizations have called for greater efforts to address the root causes of migration and to establish safer legal pathways for those seeking asylum. The incident is one of several migrant boat disasters that have occurred along African coastlines in recent months.
Search and rescue operations continue as authorities hold out hope of finding more survivors. Local communities have rallied to provide support to those rescued and to families awaiting news of their loved ones.
Comments