More than 80 migrants feared dead after boat rescued off
More than 80 migrants feared dead after boat rescued off
Key Highlights
- Over 80 migrants feared dead after boat rescue off Canary Islands
- survivors found, five bodies recovered with rough sea conditions making recovery impossible
- Atlantic route from West Africa to Canary Islands one of world's deadliest migration crossings
Rescue teams from Spanish Maritime Rescue located a vessel approximately 65 nautical miles southwest of Gran Canaria's Arguineguín coastal town on Wednesday, resulting in the recovery of 44 survivors and five deceased individuals.
The boat is believed to have departed The Gambia in West Africa in early August with an initial occupancy of 127 people. According to human rights activist Helena Maleno Garzón, founder of Spanish charity Caminando Fronteras, a total of 83 lives were lost during the ill-fated journey.
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Rescuers encountered rough sea conditions
Rescuers encountered rough sea conditions and were forced to abandon the recovery of five bodies due to the treacherous waters, according to Maritime Rescue. The organisation was unable to verify the original number of people on board the vessel.
The 44 survivors are reported to be men from sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the dire circumstances faced
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Helena Maleno Garzón's statement echoed concerns about the risks posed
Fernando Clavijo, head of the Canary Islands government, expressed his dismay at the ongoing loss of lives, stating that it is "intolerable" for lives to continue being lost due to the treacherous Atlantic route.
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I write about the forces shaping business and the global economy, from startup growth and changing markets to international trade and policy. My work focuses on breaking down complex developments into clear, practical insights and understanding what they could mean for businesses, investors, and the wider economy.
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