DAKAR: Senegal’s navy on Tuesday said that the death toll from a migrant shipwreck off the coast of Mbour has climbed to at least 26, following a tragic incident that occurred two days ago, in the latest migration-linked tragedy to occur off West Africa.
The latest update reveals that 17 additional bodies were recovered on Tuesday, adding to the nine initial deaths reported after the vessel sank on Sunday.
The navy’s post on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the recovery of the latest bodies and said that the search for survivors and missing persons is still ongoing. Many of the boat’s passengers remain unaccounted for, and rescue efforts are being hampered by the challenging conditions at sea.
Witnesses in Mbour, a coastal town known as a major departure point for migrants heading towards Europe, reported that the boat capsized shortly after setting sail. The vessel was overloaded, which contributed to its sinking. The boat’s departure from the shore marked the beginning of a perilous journey, characteristic of the dangerous Atlantic route often used by migrants seeking a better life in Europe.
Senegal’s coasts are a significant departure point for thousands of migrants, many of whom risk their lives to reach Europe. The Atlantic migration route is notorious for its perilous conditions, including strong currents and overcrowded, often unseaworthy boats. The risks associated with this route have led to thousands of deaths and disappearances each year.
The tragedy off Mbour is part of a broader migration crisis affecting West Africa. This year alone, over 22,000 migrants have reached Spain’s Canary Islands, more than double the number from the previous year.
