Dozens of African Migrants Confirmed Dead, Hundreds Missing After Boat Capsizes

Over a dozen migrants died and at least 150 others are missing after their boat capsized off Mauritania on their way to Europe, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The boat capsized near Nouakchott, Mauritius, and 300 people were rescued. The IOM reported that 15 people were confirmed dead upon arrival.

A surge of migrants has left West Africa through Senegal, and many are traveling on artisanal fishing boats, known as pirogues, which can be overwhelmed by strong winds and Atlantic currents.

The IOM reported that four unaccompanied and separated children were rescued, and 10 survivors were referred to hospitals for medical attention.

Nearly 20,000 migrants have arrived irregularly in the Canary Islands using the Mauritania route this year, almost triple the number from the same period in 2023. At least 1,950 migrants died on that route last year, which the IOM said was the second-deadliest year on record.