At least seven souls lost their lives and numerous others are missing following a craft carrying about two hundred people attempting to reach Europe overturned in waters near the Gambian coast, authorities say.
The vessel capsized in the early hours of Thursday close to the village of Jinack in the northern bank region and it was afterwards located "stranded on a sandbar", the Gambian military authorities announced officially.
Ninety-six people have been rescued so far and a hunt is ongoing for the remaining passengers who were traveling on the shipwrecked vessel that was heading towards Spain's Canary Islands.
The dangerous voyage over the the Atlantic has grown into a more frequent path for African asylum seekers seeking entry into European nations.
Nearly 47,000 people reached the Canary Islands in the year 2024 and figures suggest in excess of nine thousand individuals have lost their lives in the attempt.
Ongoing Mission
Following the Wednesday incident, The Gambian Navy began a rescue mission, deploying a number of military boats and a fishing vessel that offered help, the military reported.
Reports indicate some of the deceased are foreign nationals and that their identities are still being verified.
The deceased of the seven victims who died were found, and 10 of those rescued are reported to be in grave health and undergoing emergency treatment.
A Frequent Pathway
Gambia is a common pathway utilized by asylum seekers attempting to enter European countries, typically through dangerous journeys over water and land.
Recently, the EU has forged deals with a number of North African nations designed to limiting illegal migration.
