Description
The boat reportedly departed from Gambia toward the Canary Islands. The survivors were first assisted by fishermen and the Mauritanian Coast Guard, then brought to the Mauritanian Red Crescent, which requested MSF’s support.
In recent weeks, MSF teams in Nouadhibou, Mauritania, have supported three disembarkation interventions, assisting hundreds of survivors at port. Survivors were found suffering from post-traumatic shock, psychosis, bone fractures, traumatic injuries, and hypothermia.
We urge the governments of countries along the migration route, as well as European states and regional and international actors, to work collectively to prevent further loss of life. Saving lives at sea and ensuring humane and dignified assistance to survivors must be an immediate priority.