A joint operation involving the Gambia Immigration Department, the Gambia Navy and Spain’s Guardia Civil has intercepted 71 would-be migrants and seized a vessel at Denton Bridge in Banjul.

The operation targeted a suspected irregular migration attempt before the group could embark on a journey towards Europe.

Immigration authorities said the group consisted of 29 Gambians, 27 Senegalese, nine Malians and six Guineans. All 71 individuals intercepted were male.

Security officers also recovered a boat and other items believed to have been intended for the voyage.

The interception marks one of the latest operations by Gambian authorities and their international partners to disrupt irregular migration routes through the Atlantic.

In a statement, the Immigration Department said the operation demonstrated growing cooperation between national security agencies and international partners in tackling human smuggling and unsafe migration.

The department added that it remains committed to promoting safe and legal migration channels while strengthening border and maritime security.

The Gambia continues to be one of the countries affected by irregular migration, with many young people attempting the dangerous “backway” journey to Europe through the Atlantic Ocean.

By Adama Makasuba