According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 150 people remain unaccounted for, while 120 were fortunate to be rescued by the Mauritanian Coast Guard during ongoing search efforts.
Al Jazeera reported that the victims had spent seven days at sea before the devastating accident occurred.
“Nearly 300 people boarded a wooden pirogue in The Gambia and spent seven days at sea before the boat capsized near Nouakchott on July 22, 2024. Among the survivors, 10 people were urgently referred to hospitals for medical care, and four unaccompanied and separated children were identified,” read the report in part.
However, a fishmonger witness recounted how strong winds in the region brought nearly 30 bodies close to the shore, which were subsequently recovered by the rescuers.
“Surely other lifeless bodies will be discovered in the next two days,” he said.
According to the report, all the victims are suspected migrant workers seeking asylum and better opportunities in Europe.
