Tragedy Strikes as Over a Dozen Migrants Perish in Boat Capsize Off Mauritania

Over a dozen migrants died and at least 150 are missing after a boat carrying 300 capsized off the Mauritanian coast. The Mauritanian Coast Guard rescued 120 people. A surge of migrants from West Africa has attempted to reach Europe, often facing perilous conditions. Efforts to save others continue.

Over a dozen migrants have died and at least 150 are missing after their boat capsized off Mauritania, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). A frantic search and rescue operation is currently underway.

The boat, carrying 300 migrants, overturned near Nouakchott, the Mauritanian capital. The Mauritanian Coast Guard has rescued 120 people so far, but tragically, 15 were confirmed dead upon arrival.

A surge in migrants leaving West Africa to reach Europe's Canary Islands has been observed in recent years. Many undertake the perilous journey on artisanal fishing boats known as pirogues, which are vulnerable to Atlantic currents and strong winds. Thousands have survived the crossing, though many have died or gone missing en route.

(With inputs from agencies.)