At least 70 migrants have been confirmed dead after their boat capsized off the coast of Gambia, according to local authorities. The tragic incident occurred late Friday night, marking one of the deadliest maritime disasters in recent months.
Survivors of the incident reported that the vessel was overloaded with passengers attempting to reach Europe. The Gambian Navy, along with local fishermen, have been conducting rescue operations and recovering bodies since early Saturday morning. As of now, only a handful of survivors have been found.
This heartbreaking event highlights the ongoing crisis faced by migrants in West Africa, where many risk their lives in search of better opportunities abroad. Earlier this month, a similar situation unfolded when over 50 migrants drowned off the coast of Libya, emphasizing the perilous journey many undertake.
The Gambian government has vowed to increase efforts to combat human trafficking and improve safety measures for migrants. As the world grapples with the complexities of migration, this latest tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that countless individuals face in pursuit of a better life.