One hundred forty-four migrants and refugees reported dead or missing.
One hundred and forty-four migrants and refugees are dead or missing after boat incidents off the coast of Mauritania. Thirty-eight people were rescued from a boat traveling from Gambia. Two children survived the journey.
The incidents occurred between July 14th and 18th. Boats were traveling towards Spain and the Canary Islands. The migrants were attempting to reach the Canary Islands. The UN says this is a very dangerous route for migrants. Authorities are searching for those who went missing.
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Highlights
High Death Toll Reported
One hundred and forty people are dead or missing off the coast of Mauritania.
Boats Traveling from Gambia
The boats were traveling from Gambia to reach the Canary Islands.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Rescue operations brought 387 people back to shore between July 14th and 18th.
Dangerous Migration Route
This route is considered one of the world’s most dangerous for migrants.
UN Calls for Safer Routes
The United Nations is urging for safer migration routes to be established.
Perspectives
- One hundred and forty people are missing off the coast of Mauritania.
- Multiple boats have sunk off the coast of Mauritania.
- The route is one of the deadliest for migrants seeking to reach Europe.
- Rescue operations brought 387 people back to shore.
Some sources report 143 deaths, others 140 or 150.
NOS Nieuws, ZEIT Online, FAZ, Der Standard, ORF News, New
The UN reports 144 deaths or missing.
France24 English, France24