Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – In a tragic incident, at least 18 migrants from the Senegalese town of Rufisque lost their lives when their boat capsized off the coast of Morocco late last week. The mayor of Rufisque, Oumar Cisse, confirmed the devastating news to AFP on Thursday, stating that he had spoken to survivors who revealed that a total of 18 people had perished in the shipwreck. The ill-fated canoe was reportedly carrying 63 people when it tragically overturned, putting a significant number of lives in jeopardy.
The survivors who managed to reach safety are currently being taken care of in the city of Dakhla, located in southern Morocco. The rescue and assistance operations are being carried out with the cooperation of local authorities, with the primary objective of repatriating those affected by this heartbreaking incident. Additionally, six individuals from Rufisque are being treated for their injuries in hospitals following the ordeal.
In response to this tragedy, Senegalese President Macky Sall expressed his condolences and paid tribute to those who lost their lives in recent shipwrecks at sea. A government statement released on Thursday night conveyed the president’s heartfelt sentiments and sorrow over the loss of lives.
Read also: Morocco-Spain Border: Irregular Immigration Drops by 36% in 2023
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks and dangers faced by migrants seeking a better life beyond their home countries. The treacherous sea journey is not only fraught with peril but also sheds light on the broader issue of irregular migration in the region.
