The Gambia Navy has intercepted a migrant boat with 49 migrants on board at sea around Barra while attempting the risky “back-way” journey to Europe.

The intercepted migrants including 43 Gambians, three Nigerians and three Senegalese nationals

“The irregular migrants were subsequently transported from Barra to Banjul aboard the Gambia Navy patrol vessel GNS JAMBARR for processing. In another operation, the Navy and Immigration personnel stationed at the Kartong crossing point to Casamance intercepted a boat laden with food and fuel supplies,” the army said.

The army added that: “a total of 67 would-be irregular migrants intending to board this vessel en route to Spain were apprehended on 15 July 2024.  They included 1 Senegalese, 1 Malian, and several Gambians, including 3 females.  They have all been handed over to the officials of the Gambia Immigration Department for further investigation.”

Gambia has been struggling to curb irregular migration which has seen thousands of its young citizens take on the journey. Scores died while trying to reach Europe for a better life. 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba