Sixty-nine people drowned after a boat carrying migrants capsized near the coast of Mauritania earlier this week, according to authorities on Friday.
The incident happened late Tuesday when passengers noticed the lights of a coastal town roughly 50 miles (80km) north of Nouakchott, the capital. The sudden movement of migrants toward one side of the vessel caused it to overturn, said Mohamed Abdallah, the coastguard chief.
“When those on board saw Mheijrat’s lights, they shifted position, leading to the boat tipping over,” Abdallah explained.
Reports indicate the vessel had departed from the Gambia a week earlier with around 160 people on board, including citizens of Senegal and the Gambia.
Initial reports listed 49 fatalities, but officials later revised the number to 69. Seventeen survivors were rescued by a coastguard patrol.
In recent years, thousands have lost their lives attempting the treacherous journey between Africa and Europe. The International Organisation for Migration estimates at least 8,938 deaths in 2024 alone among those trying to cross borders.
Many traveling through Mauritania come from nearby nations like Senegal and Mali, hoping to reach Europe. However, strong currents and unstable boats make the journey extremely hazardous. Some also attempt crossing the Sahara, which makes up 90% of Mauritania’s land, enduring temperatures exceeding 45C.
A recent report by Human Rights Watch accused Mauritanian security forces of misconduct toward migrants.
The 142-page document, published Wednesday, described incidents of “excessive restraints, inadequate food and water, and other forms of mistreatment” in operations backed by a €210m agreement with the EU since 2024.
Nouakchott officials have not yet commented on the allegations, which have sparked discussions among policymakers and aid organizations this week.
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