Tragic Boat Disaster: Over 60 Migrants Feared Dead off Cape Verde
In a devastating incident, at least 60 migrants are believed to have lost their lives in a boat disaster off Cape Verde, according to the International Organization on Migration (IOM). The ill-fated boat was carrying a total of 101 individuals when tragedy struck.
Miraculously, 38 people, including four children, were rescued from the sinking vessel. However, the search for survivors has been met with despair as seven bodies have been recovered, and 56 people still remain missing. The IOM sadly presumes that the missing individuals are also deceased.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, the Spanish human rights NGO Caminando Fronteras shares a higher fatality estimate. According to their calculations, there were 130 people on board the boat, with a staggering 92 fatalities. The exact number remains a matter of investigation.
The boat embarked on its ill-fated journey from the coast of Senegal on July 10, and after a month-long ordeal, it was finally spotted by rescuers near Cape Verde on August 15. This tragic incident highlights the growing number of immigrants arriving in Cape Verde, which has recently become a middle-income country.
It is still unclear if Cape Verde was intended to be their final destination, or if the migrants were heading towards the Canary Islands, which have become a popular destination for those seeking to reach Europe from West Africa.
The Canary Islands, belonging to Spain, have witnessed a significant influx of migrants this year. As per the latest data, 9,864 migrants have arrived by boat to the Canary Islands since the beginning of the year, which shows a slight decline compared to the same period last year.
Authorities are working tirelessly to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and provide assistance to the survivors. The international community, especially neighboring countries, has been urged to step up efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of migrants embarking on perilous journeys in search of a better life.
This heart-wrenching event serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing migration crisis and the urgent need for a comprehensive and humane response to address the plight of migrants and refugees worldwide.
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