At least seven individuals lost their lives and many others are lost in the wake of a boat carrying around 200 people attempting to reach the European continent overturned in waters near the Gambian coast, authorities say.
The vessel capsized late Wednesday night near Jinack in the northern bank region and it was later found "beached on a shoal", the country's defence ministry stated in a release.
96 individuals have been saved to date and a rescue operation continues for other passengers who were traveling on the capsized craft that was heading towards the Canary Islands of Spain.
The perilous journey over the Atlantic Ocean has emerged as a rising pathway for African asylum seekers seeking entry into the EU.
Almost forty-seven thousand migrants reached the Spanish archipelago in last year and figures suggest over 9,000 people perished trying.
Search and Rescue Efforts
After Wednesday's accident, The Gambian Navy began a search-and-rescue operation, deploying several naval vessels and a fishing vessel that offered help, the defense officials reported.
Authorities say some of the deceased are foreign nationals and that their details are still being checked.
The bodies of the seven victims who died have been recovered, and 10 of those rescued are reported to be in serious condition and receiving urgent medical care.
A Common Migration Route
The Gambia is a frequent corridor used by migrants attempting to enter Europe, frequently via perilous trips across ocean and terrain.
Recently, the European bloc has forged deals with multiple North African nations aimed at limiting irregular migration.
