In an alarming announcement, a humanitarian organization disclosed that approximately 300 migrants from Senegal to Spain’s Canary Islands have reportedly vanished. Helena Maleno of Walking Borders revealed this unsettling information to Reuters.
Specifically, three migrant boats en route to Spain from Senegal disappeared. Maleno stated that two boats, one with a minimum of 65 passengers and another carrying 50 to 60 individuals, had gone missing for 15 days since they embarked on their journey. A third boat, having around 200 people on board, departed Senegal on June 27th.
Regrettably, the families of those on board have received no communication from their loved ones since the boats’ departure. The vessels had all launched from Kafountine in the south of Senegal, around 1,700 kilometres (1,057 miles) from Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands.
The Human Toll and the Migration Crisis
“The families are deeply concerned,” says Maleno, adding, “There are about 300 people from the same area of Senegal. They have left because of the instability in Senegal.” This disturbing incident underscores the dire situation, compelling many to risk their lives for a more stable and secure future.
Spain’s Canary Islands, located off West Africa’s coast, have become a primary destination for migrants. While some cross the dangerous Mediterranean Sea to reach the Spanish mainland, most aim for the Canary Islands. The highest numbers of attempted crossings are observed during the summer season.
Migrants from sub-Saharan Africa usually utilize the treacherous Atlantic migration route. The UN’s International Organisation for Migration reveals that in 2022 alone, a minimum of 559 people, including 22 children, perished while trying to reach the Canary Islands. These numbers reflect the grim realities of the migration crisis and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
