Migrant Boat from Barra Rescued; Casualties Reported

New details have emerged regarding a migrant boat that reportedly departed from Barra on 14 February, carrying a large number of migrants attempting to reach Europe.

According to sources monitoring the situation, approximately 189 people have been rescued after the vessel encountered difficulties at sea. Reports indicate that around 20 survivors are receiving medical treatment in Dakhla.

Tragically, preliminary information suggests that about 40 people may have died during the voyage, although the exact number of fatalities has not been fully confirmed. Family members of some passengers have already received confirmation of deaths, including a young woman and a young man believed to have been on board. Efforts are ongoing to verify the full number of casualties and determine how many were Gambian nationals.

Sources also indicate that the vessel may have carried more than 250 migrants, suggesting that the scale of the tragedy could be greater than initially reported. Authorities continue investigations and verification to clarify the situation and assist affected families.

Further information is expected as authorities and humanitarian actors continue rescue and verification operations.