The Related Press
BANJUL, Gambia (AP) — Dozens are lacking after a ship carrying greater than 200 migrants on their method to Europe capsized off the coast of Gambia, the West African nation’s chief stated late Jan. 2, setting off a frantic search and rescue operation.
At the very least 102 survivors have been rescued and 7 our bodies recovered from the boat that capsized on New Yr’s Eve in northwest Gambia’s North Financial institution area, Gambian President Adama Barrow stated in a state broadcast.
The emergency providers had been joined by native fishermen and different volunteers in trying to find the victims, days after the New Yr’s Eve incident close to the village of Jinack, he stated.
Hundreds of Africans determined for higher alternatives in Europe danger their lives touring on boats alongside the Atlantic coast, one of many world’s deadliest migrant routes that connects the West African coast throughout Gambia, Senegal and Mauritania.
Many migrants looking for to achieve Spain through the Canary Islands by no means make it as a consequence of excessive dangers of boats capsizing. In August 2025, round 150 individuals had been both lifeless or lacking after their boat that got here from Gambia capsized off the coast of Mauritania. The same incident in July 2024 killed greater than a dozen migrants with 150 others declared lacking.
It was not clear what led to the most recent tragedy. Gambia’s Ministry of Protection stated the boat was discovered “grounded on a sandbank.”
“The nationwide emergency response plan has been activated and the federal government has deployed ample sources to accentuate efforts and supply help to the survivors,” Barrow stated.
A few of the 102 survivors had been present process pressing medical care, the Gambian chief stated.
As he condoled with households, Barrow vowed a full investigation and known as the accident a “painful reminder of the damaging and life-threatening nature of irregular migration.”
“The federal government will strengthen efforts to stop irregular migration and stays decided to create safer and extra dignified alternatives for younger individuals to fulfil their desires,” he added.
