Gambian authorities intercept 780 migrants trying to reach Europe
Authorities in The Gambia have intercepted over 780 migrants at three different locations, all attempting to reach Europe via Spain's Canary Islands.
Authorities in The Gambia have intercepted over 780 migrants at three different locations, all attempting to reach Europe via Spain's Canary Islands.
The intercepted individuals included 233 people from Senegal, 197 from The Gambia, 176 from Guinea, and 148 from Mali.
This operation occurred shortly after a boat capsized off the Gambian coast on New Year's Eve, resulting in the loss of over 30 lives.
Authorities in The Gambia have intercepted over 780 migrants at three different locations, all attempting to reach Europe via Spain's Canary Islands.
Due to increased maritime patrols by Senegal, Mauritania, and Morocco, migrant vessels are now departing from further south, including The Gambia, which is not the closest African country to the Canary Islands.
The interior ministry expressed concern over the rising number of individuals attempting the sea journey to Europe from The Gambia. In response, special operations teams have been activated to address this issue decisively.
The Atlantic Ocean migration route, utilized by West Africans on overcrowded and often inadequate vessels, remains one of the world's most perilous.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
