Recent reports from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have revealed a devastating incident near Mauritania's capital Nouakchott. A boat carrying migrants capsized, resulting in the loss of at least 15 lives, with over 195 individuals still missing. The Mauritanian coastguard has managed to rescue 120 people, including unaccompanied and separated children, since the tragic event occurred on Monday.
The passengers had boarded the ill-fated boat in Gambia seven days prior to the incident. The exact circumstances leading to the capsizing remain unclear, and authorities are actively engaged in rescue efforts to locate the missing individuals.
The IOM expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and the high number of missing persons, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. This tragedy unfolded within the context of increased migration along the West Atlantic Route, with over 19,700 irregular arrivals in the Canary Islands recorded in 2024 so far, a significant rise from the previous year.
Highlighting the dangers of this migration route, the IOM's Missing Migrants Project has documented over 4,500 deaths and disappearances since 2014, with last year marking the second deadliest period on record. Since June 2024, more than 6,130 surviving migrants have arrived in Mauritania on approximately 76 boats, but the journey has claimed the lives of at least 190 individuals.
As the search for the missing migrants continues, the international community remains vigilant in addressing the challenges posed by irregular migration and ensuring the safety and well-being of those embarking on perilous journeys in search of better opportunities.
