BTN News: A terrible event has left many people grieving. More than a dozen migrants have died, and at least 150 are still missing after their boat sank near Mauritania. They were trying to reach Europe. This news comes from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). This sad event has started a big search and rescue mission. It shows how dangerous the journey is for migrants who want a better life.
The Boat Carried 300 People and Capsized Close to Mauritania’s Capital Nouakchott
The boat had 300 people on board when it sank on Monday near Nouakchott, Mauritania’s capital. The Mauritanian Coast Guard saved 120 people. The IOM shared this news in a statement on Wednesday. “Sadly, 15 people were found dead when they arrived,” the statement said. The search for survivors is still happening.
More Migrants Are Taking the Dangerous Journey from West Africa to the Canary Islands
More people have been leaving West Africa, especially from Senegal, in recent years. They take a risky journey heading north past Mauritania to reach the Spanish Canary Islands. The migrants in this tragedy were in a small fishing boat. These boats can be overwhelmed by strong Atlantic winds and currents. While thousands have made this dangerous trip, many have died or gone missing. Sometimes, their bodies are found across the Atlantic.
Rescue Efforts Saved Four Unaccompanied Children and Many Others Who Need Medical Attention
Four unaccompanied children were rescued from the wreck on Monday. They are now separated from their families, according to the IOM. Also, ten survivors were taken to hospitals for medical help. These children and other migrants often start these dangerous trips because their families hope for a better future. They are escaping severe poverty and instability in their home countries.
Migrant Arrivals to the Canary Islands Have Tripled This Year Compared to Last Year
This year, nearly 20,000 migrants have reached the Canary Islands using the Mauritania route. This number is more than three times higher than the same period in 2023, says the IOM. Last year, at least 1,950 people died on this route. This made it the second deadliest year on record, according to the IOM.
Urgent Need for the International Community to Address Root Causes of Migration
This tragic event shows the extreme measures people take to leave their difficult lives behind. The international community needs to address the root causes of migration. They should work on providing safer and better options for those seeking new lives. The search for the missing continues. We hope more lives can be saved from this sad disaster.
