7 Dead, Dozens Missing After Migrant Sinks off Gambia

At least seven people have died and dozens are missing after a boat carrying more than 200 migrants sank off the coast of Gambia, authorities said.

The Gambian government said the vessel, which was transporting irregular migrants, went down near the village of Jinak in the North Bank Region. At least 96 people were rescued, some of whom sustained serious injuries and were taken for medical treatment.

The Gambian Navy launched a large-scale search and rescue operation involving multiple naval vessels, as efforts continue to locate those still unaccounted for.

The incident underscores the persistent dangers faced by migrants attempting perilous sea crossings along West Africa’s Atlantic routes, where overcrowded and unseaworthy boats are frequently used by smugglers.

Authorities said investigations are under way to determine the circumstances of the sinking, while rescue teams remain on high alert along the coast.