Kokcha News Agency– A boat carrying irregular migrants from Gambia, aiming to reach Spain’s Canary Islands, capsized off the coast of Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania.
The incident resulted in the deaths of 69 migrants, while 17 others managed to swim to shore and were rescued.
The boat was reportedly carrying around 160 people. Search and rescue operations are ongoing for dozens of individuals still missing in the water.
It is believed that the boat, which was carrying passengers and cargo beyond its capacity, capsized due to engine failure.
The Atlantic route from West Africa to the Canary Islands is known as one of the most dangerous routes for irregular migrants.
In recent years, similar tragedies have occurred due to poorly maintained boats and overcrowded journeys.
In July 2024, a boat carrying migrants sank off the coast of Nouakchott, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and the disappearance of nearly 200 others.
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