ISLAMABAD: A tragic incident off the coast of Senegal resulted in the loss of 16 lives when a wooden boat, presumably carrying migrants, overturned.
Authorities are still conducting search operations and expect to find more bodies.
Witnesses reported seeing the capsized boat floating near the shore.
Among those rescues was a 23-year-old man. Who shared his dream of reaching Europe to pursue a career as a professional footballer. However, he now realizes the dangers involved in such journeys and is considering legal emigration when the opportunity arises.
The Atlantic sea route from northwest Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands has seen increased activity in recent weeks as migrants attempt to reach Europe.
Tragic incidents involving capsize boats have been reported in the region, leading to multiple fatalities. Morocco’s navy has also been involved in rescuing nearly 900 irregular migrants, most of whom come from sub-Saharan Africa.
President Macky Sall of Senegal expressed his condolences to those who lost their lives. At sea and called for intensified controls at potential departure sites. He also emphasized the need for increased surveillance, awareness-raising, and support for youth to combat clandestine emigration.
