How many people died when the Gambia migrant boat capsized?

Seven bodies were recovered after the boat capsized.

What is the Atlantic migration route to the Canary Islands?

It is a perilous sea route used by African migrants attempting to reach Spain.

What happened to the rescued migrants from the Gambia boat?

Ninety-six people were rescued, and ten of them are in critical condition requiring medical attention.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Gambia Boat Capsizes: 7 Dead, 96 Saved

Gambia Boat Capsizes: 7 Dead, 96 Saved

2 Jan

•

Summary

Seven bodies were recovered after a migrant boat carrying over 200 people capsized.
Ninety-six individuals were rescued, with ten in critical condition requiring medical care.
The Atlantic route to the Canary Islands remains one of the world's most perilous for migrants.

A vessel believed to be carrying over 200 migrants capsized overnight, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives. Gambian authorities reported that 96 individuals were rescued from the water, with ten of those survivors in critical condition requiring immediate medical care. The incident underscores the perilous nature of the Atlantic migration route, a common path for African migrants seeking to reach Spain via the Canary Islands.

This route has become increasingly deadly. European Union data indicates that over 46,000 irregular migrants reached the Canary Islands in 2024, marking a record high. Tragically, more than 10,000 individuals are estimated to have perished attempting this journey, a stark 58% increase compared to 2023, according to the rights group Caminando Fronteras.

Recent history shows the consistent dangers faced by those undertaking this crossing. In August 2025, at least 70 people died when a boat, thought to have departed from Gambia, capsized. This event was one of the deadliest migrant accidents recorded in recent years, emphasizing the ongoing crisis and the risks migrants endure.