A sad Maritime ordeal occurred recently with a staggering number of no less than 300 individuals dead. They traversed the vast expanse of ocean from Senegal to Spain’s Canary Islands and have been reported missing.
In a troubling disclosure made on Sunday by the migrant aid group, Walking Borders, two boats carrying a total of around 115 to 125 individuals have been missing for 15 days.
As per the report, these individuals left Senegal with the objective of reaching Spain. Furthermore, Reuters reported that a third boat, carrying approximately 200 people, embarked from Senegal on June 27.
Walking Borders representative Helena Maleno revealed that the families of the individuals on board have been unable to make contact or receive any updates since their departure from various locations.
Kafountine, located in the southern region of Senegal, served as the starting point for all three boats, which are approximately 1,700 kilometers (1,057 miles) away from Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands.
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‘The families are very worried. There are about 300 people from the same area of Senegal. They have left because of the instability in Senegal,’ Maleno said.
The Canary Islands, located off the coast of West Africa, have become the main target for migrants attempting to reach Spain, with a smaller group also aiming to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach the Spanish mainland.
Based on Reuters’ report, it was disclosed that all attempted crossings observe their highest activity during the summer season.
Migrants from sub-Saharan Africa typically opt for the Atlantic migration route, which is renowned as one of the most perilous globally.
Data provided by the United Nations’ International Organisation for Migration in 2022 revealed that at least 559 individuals, including 22 children, tragically perished in their attempts to reach the Canary Islands.