Search Resumes for 48 Missing Migrants Off Canary Islands

Rescue teams resumed their search on September 29, for 48 missing migrants after their boat capsized near El Hierro, part of Spain’s Canary Islands, VOA revealed yesterday.

The incident occurred as the vessel was being rescued, resulting in at least nine fatalities. Spain’s maritime rescue organization reported that hopes of finding survivors are dwindling, with regional president Fernando Clavijo stating the missing are “presumed dead.”

Twenty-seven migrants were rescued, and nine bodies have been recovered since the boat, which set sail from Nouadhibou, Mauritania, approximately 800 kilometers away, overturned. Eyewitnesses noted that panic ensued as migrants rushed to one side of the overcrowded boat, which may have been carrying up to 90 people. This tragedy follows a recent incident in early September, where 39 migrants died off Senegal while attempting a similar crossing. Over the years, thousands have perished trying to reach Europe from West Africa.