The Gambia: Dozens missing after boat carrying over 200 migrants capsized

Regulation: Migrant Boat Capsizes Off Gambia Coast

A boat carrying over 200 migrants capsized off the coast of Gambia on New Year's Eve. As of the latest reports, 102 survivors have been rescued, and seven bodies have been recovered. The incident occurred in the North Bank region of northwest Gambia, according to Gambian President Adama Barrow.

The Gambian government has activated the national emergency response plan. Adequate resources have been deployed to intensify rescue efforts and provide necessary assistance to the survivors. Local fishermen and volunteers have joined the emergency services in the ongoing search operations near the village of Jinack.

The cause of the incident remains unclear, but the Ministry of Defence noted that the boat was found grounded on a sandbank. President Barrow has promised a full investigation and highlighted the risks associated with irregular migration. The government aims to strengthen efforts to prevent such dangerous journeys and to create safer opportunities for the youth.

The route along the Atlantic coast is one of the world's deadliest for migrants, connecting West Africa's coast across Gambia, Senegal, and Mauritania. Many who attempt to reach Spain via the Canary Islands face high risks of boat capsizing. In 2025, over 3,000 people died trying to reach Spain by sea.

Based on reporting by Africanews.