Gambia(The COW News Digital)At least seven people have lost their lives after a boat carrying migrants capsized in northwestern Gambia, while 96 others were rescued alive, Gambian authorities confirmed on Thursday. Dozens more are feared missing as search and rescue operations continue in the area.
According to Gambia’s Ministry of Defence, the overcrowded vessel was believed to be carrying more than 200 migrants at the time of the incident. The boat overturned close to midnight near a village in the country’s North Bank Region before drifting and becoming stuck on a sandbank.
Rescue teams recovered seven bodies from the water, while survivors were pulled to safety during an emergency operation involving naval and civilian resources. The Ministry stated that search efforts are ongoing to locate missing passengers, raising concerns that the death toll could increase.
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The rescue operation included three naval speedboats, a coastal patrol vessel, and a local fishing boat whose operators volunteered to assist authorities. Officials praised the coordinated response, noting that timely intervention helped save many lives despite challenging nighttime conditions.
Of the 96 migrants rescued, at least 10 were reported to be in critical condition and were immediately transferred to medical facilities for urgent treatment. Authorities have not yet disclosed the nationalities of the victims or survivors, saying identification efforts are still underway.
The incident occurred along one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes. Thousands of migrants from West Africa attempt the perilous sea journey each year in hopes of reaching Spain via the Canary Islands. The route is notorious for overcrowded and poorly equipped boats, rough seas, and limited chances of rescue in the event of an accident.
Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned about the growing risks faced by migrants using this passage, particularly during periods of increased departures. Economic hardship, unemployment, and political instability across parts of West Africa continue to push many to undertake the dangerous crossing.
Gambian authorities said they are working closely with emergency services to ensure survivors receive medical care and support. Investigations into the cause of the capsizing are also expected, including whether the vessel was operating illegally or exceeded safe capacity limits.
This latest tragedy highlights the ongoing migrant crisis in the region and underscores the urgent need for safer migration pathways. As rescue operations continue, families of those onboard remain anxiously awaiting news, while officials warn that such incidents may persist without stronger regional and international measures.
