The Gambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad has issued an update on reports of a boat incident involving migrants, saying it is working with Spanish authorities and international partners to establish what happened and verify the identities of those reportedly on board.
In a press release dated September 4, the Ministry expressed “deep sadness” over the reported incident and extended condolences to families and loved ones affected by the situation.
The Ministry said that, at this stage, the identities and nationalities of the people reportedly on board have not been officially verified.
While preliminary information indicates that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, authorities said they are engaging Spanish officials and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and verify information currently circulating.
The Ministry said it is also liaising with Spanish authorities through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, while maintaining contact with international organisations and partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The government urged the public to exercise caution over unverified reports, warning that inaccurate information could cause additional distress to families anxiously awaiting information about missing relatives.
“Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified,” the Ministry said.
The statement also highlighted the continuing dangers associated with irregular migration journeys, particularly those undertaken by sea. The Ministry stressed the need for sustained cooperation between governments and relevant stakeholders to promote safer and regular migration pathways and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.
The latest statement comes amid growing concern over the fate of Gambians undertaking dangerous migration journeys towards Europe.
The Ministry said it remains sympathetic to affected families and communities and appealed for patience and cooperation as efforts to establish the facts surrounding the reported incident continue.
