Spain migrant boat tragedy: 83 feared dead after vessel sinks near Canary Islands

Spain migrant boat tragedy: More than 80 migrants are feared dead after a boat carrying people from West Africa met with an accident in the Atlantic Ocean near Spain’s Canary Islands, in what is being described as another deadly crossing on one of Europe’s most dangerous migration routes.

Helena Maleno, founder of migrant rights group Walking Borders, said 83 persons had died in the incident. Her account included three women and a child. However, Spanish authorities have so far confirmed five deaths, meaning the final toll could change as search and rescue operations continue and more information becomes available.

Three survivors airlifted to hospital

Spain’s maritime rescue service said three survivors were taken to hospital by helicopter after being rescued from the vessel. Another 41 migrants were brought ashore by boat and taken to a port, where they received assistance from the Red Cross.

José Antonio Rodríguez Verona, a Red Cross spokesperson, said the survivors were from Mali and Senegal.

He said several of the rescued migrants were in poor health. Some reportedly collapsed or began vomiting soon after reaching land.

Migrants spent weeks at sea

According to the survivors, the boat had departed from Gambia and had been at sea for several weeks, reportedly close to a month.

They said their food and water supplies eventually ran out, forcing them to drink seawater. The prolonged journey and lack of basic supplies left many of the migrants seriously weak and ill.

The survivors also told rescuers that more than 100 persons were initially on board, including women and a child.

Bodies reportedly thrown into the sea

The migrants said people died during the long journey and their bodies were thrown into the Atlantic. Later, however, those still alive became so exhausted that they were no longer able to dispose of the bodies, according to accounts from survivors.

Rescue efforts were also complicated by difficult weather conditions. Strong winds and waves measuring around 2.5 metre made the operation more challenging.

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Atlantic migration route remains highly dangerous

The route from West Africa towards Spain’s Canary Islands is considered one of the most dangerous migration routes to Europe. Migrants often undertake the journey in overcrowded and poorly equipped boats, exposing them to rough seas, hunger, dehydration and prolonged periods without medical assistance.

Thousands of people have died or gone missing on the Atlantic route in recent years while attempting to reach the Canary Islands.