The Gambia Navy has intercepted 207 suspected irregular migrants aboard a vessel near Kunta Kinteh Island in Juffureh, preventing what authorities believe was an attempted sea voyage to Europe.

The operation, carried out on Tuesday, 21 July, was conducted in collaboration with Spain’s Guardia Civil as part of ongoing efforts to combat irregular migration and strengthen maritime security.

According to the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), the intercepted group comprised 137 men, 70 women and 11 minors.

All were safely taken into custody before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for further processing.

GAF said the operation highlights the military’s continued commitment to protecting The Gambia’s territorial waters and supporting national and regional efforts to tackle irregular migration, human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

The Armed Forces also warned that irregular migration by sea remains highly dangerous, with migrants often risking their lives aboard overcrowded and unseaworthy boats while falling prey to traffickers.

It urged the public, particularly young people, to avoid embarking on such perilous journeys and instead pursue safe and legal pathways for travel and economic opportunities.