By Seedy Jobe
A migrant vessel that departed from Bakau on April 18 has arrived in Mauritania, where several passengers are receiving medical treatment, and others have been taken to a reception center, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad.
In a statement issued Sunday, the ministry said the Gambian diplomatic mission in Mauritania had confirmed the vessel’s arrival and was working with local authorities to respond to the situation.
“The vessel has docked in Mauritania, and the embassy is currently working in close coordination with the Mauritanian authorities to effectively manage the situation,” the ministry said.
Officials reported that some of the passengers had been admitted to hospitals for treatment, though the ministry did not specify the number or the nature of their conditions. Others were transferred to a designated center, where they are receiving first aid, food, and other essential supplies.
The ministry said efforts were underway to verify the identities and nationalities of those on board—a process it described as essential for providing consular services and determining next steps.
“Embassy officials are actively engaged in verifying the nationalities of all individuals on board,” the statement said. “This process is critical to facilitating appropriate communication, consular assistance, and onward support.”
Authorities in Banjul said they were continuing to work with their Mauritanian counterparts to gather further details and would provide updates as more information becomes available.
The ministry also appealed for patience from the public as the humanitarian response continues, noting that its priority remains the welfare of those affected.
It praised the Gambian mission in Mauritania for what it called a swift and coordinated response to the situation, underscoring the government’s commitment to protecting Gambian nationals abroad.
The incident comes amid ongoing migration flows along the West African coast, where perilous sea journeys toward Europe have continued to draw attention from governments and humanitarian organizations.
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