Nouadhibou: Mauritania's coast guard announced Saturday the successful rescue of 227 irregular migrants aboard a boat originating from Gambia, intercepted off the coast of Nouadhibou in the northwest of the country. The coast guard reported that the boat was intercepted following a grueling journey at sea lasting over ten days.
According to Anadolu Agency, the passengers, which included women and children, were found severely exhausted due to prolonged hunger and thirst. The migrants were identified as being of various African nationalities, with 135 from Gambia, 73 from Guinea, and others from Senegal and Guinea-Bissau.
Upon their arrival at the port of Nouadhibou, the rescued migrants received medical assistance and food. Unfortunately, one Senegalese migrant passed away shortly after being admitted to a hospital.
Mauritania has become a significant transit point for African migrants, particularly with the northern city of Nouadhibou emerging as a hub for those attempting to reach Europe. The country has formed agreements with several European countries, including Spain, to address the challenge of irregular migration.
In recent months, Mauritanian authorities have increased their maritime patrols, successfully intercepting numerous boats carrying migrants through the country's territorial waters en route to Europe.