More than 100 people are feared dead after an irregular migrant boat, reportedly departing from Sami Koto in The Gambia, capsized off the coast of Nouakchott, Mauritania.

According to the Gambian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the vessel, carrying an estimated 150 passengers mainly from The Gambia and Senegal, overturned in the early hours of 27 August near the fishing village of Lemhaisrat, roughly 117 kilometers from Nouakchott.

A team from the Gambian Embassy in Nouakchott was dispatched on 28 August to coordinate with Mauritanian authorities and assist in rescue operations. So far, 16 survivors have been rescued, including five Gambian nationals.

Authorities have recovered 70 bodies from the water and shoreline. Due to the condition of the bodies, a joint burial was conducted under the supervision of the Gendarmerie, police, fire and rescue services, the Red Cross, and medical teams.

In a statement, the Ministry said: “The Ministry, on behalf of the Government of The Gambia, extends its deepest condolences to the families of all who lost their lives in this tragic incident.

“The Ministry assures the Gambian people that it is working tirelessly with the Gambian Embassy in Nouakchott, Mauritanian authorities, and relevant international partners to provide all necessary support to survivors and families of victims.”

The Ministry also urged Gambian youth to avoid dangerous migration routes, stating: “Efforts will be intensified with stakeholders to raise awareness and strengthen preventive measures against irregular migration.”

In a separate incident, Mauritanian authorities intercepted another irregular migrant boat from Ndar, Senegal. All passengers survived, including five Gambian nationals, who are now in Mauritanian custody.

The Gambian Embassy is coordinating with local authorities and international partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), to ensure their welfare and eventual safe return home.

By Adama Makasuba