News|MigrationAt least seven dead, dozens missing as migrant boat capsizes off The GambiaGambian authorities say 96 people rescued after boat capsizes along popular West African migration route.

A maritime incident occurred off the coast of The Gambia, resulting in at least seven fatalities after a boat carrying over 200 individuals capsized. Several passengers are still unaccounted for, according to local authorities.

The incident was reported to have occurred around midnight on Thu, Dec 26, 2024, near a village in The Gambia's North Bank region, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.

The Gambian navy initiated a search-and-rescue operation following a distress call, deploying multiple naval vessels and receiving assistance from a fishing boat. The capsized vessel was subsequently located "grounded into a sandbank," according to the Ministry of Defence.

Seven bodies have been recovered. At least 96 individuals have been rescued, many with serious injuries. Several victims have been identified as non-Gambian nationals, with authorities working to confirm their identities.

The Gambia serves as a departure point for migrants and asylum seekers aiming to reach Spain's Canary Islands, a gateway to Europe. In 2024, more than 46,000 migrants arrived at the Canary Islands, according to the European Union. Tragically, over 10,000 individuals perished during the Atlantic crossing, marking a 58% increase compared to 2023, as reported by the rights group Caminando Fronteras.

Despite a reported 60% decrease in irregular migration along the West African route during the first 11 months of 2025, attributed to enhanced prevention measures by departure countries as noted by Frontex, attempts to reach Europe on inadequately equipped vessels persist.

In May 2025, a similar incident resulted in the deaths of seven women and girls when a boat capsized near the Canary Islands.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.