
At least 25 migrants have lost their lives and dozens are unaccounted for after their boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania on Monday, July 22, authorities reported.
The tragic incident is the latest in a series of maritime disasters plaguing the West African region.
The Mauritanian coast guard successfully rescued 103 survivors from the capsized vessel and recovered the bodies of 25 victims, according to a statement released by the country’s news agency, AMI.
The overcrowded boat, carrying an estimated 140 to 180 passengers primarily from Senegal and Gambia, had embarked on a perilous journey in hopes of reaching Europe.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) confirmed the grim toll, stating that approximately 300 people were initially on board the boat.
Survivors described a harrowing ordeal, enduring seven days at sea before the vessel capsized near the capital, Nouakchott.
Among the rescued, ten individuals required urgent medical attention, and four unaccompanied children were identified.
The boat’s captain abandoned the vessel as it began to break apart in the turbulent waters, according to coast guard officials.
This incident highlights the desperate conditions faced by migrants and the grave risks associated with attempting to cross the treacherous Atlantic Ocean.
The IOM reported a surge in migrant arrivals to Mauritania since June, with over 6,000 individuals disembarking safely. However, the humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the increasing number of fatalities.
At least 190 migrants are confirmed dead or missing in the region since the beginning of June, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the complex factors driving this perilous migration route.