A tragic boat accident off the coast of Morocco has claimed the lives of around 50 migrants, including 44 Pakistanis, as confirmed by authorities. The makeshift vessel, carrying approximately 86 individuals, including 66 Pakistanis, set sail from Mauritania on January 2, bound for Spain.
After spending 13 days at sea, the boat capsized, leaving only 11 survivors, according to Mali’s Ministry of Malians Abroad. A crisis unit has been established to assist affected families. While the tragedy occurred last week, reports reveal the Atlantic migration route, stretching from West Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands, remains one of the deadliest pathways, claiming over 10,457 lives in 2024 alone—averaging 30 fatalities daily.
Reuters reported that 36 people were rescued, but 50 remain feared dead. Many migrants risk this perilous journey, fleeing poverty, political instability, and conflict in their home countries. Pakistan’s ongoing political and economic turmoil has driven numerous citizens to embark on such dangerous crossings.
Spanish human rights group Caminando Fronteras revealed that the boat had been missing for six days before the tragedy. Helena Maleno, CEO of the organization, criticized the lack of timely intervention, lamenting the 13 days of distress endured by the migrants before the vessel capsized.
The incident has reignited calls for urgent humanitarian action. Fernando Clavijo, regional leader of the Canary Islands, expressed sorrow for the victims and urged Spain and Europe to address the crisis. “The Atlantic cannot continue to be the graveyard of Africa,” he stated, emphasizing the need for immediate measures to prevent further loss of life.
