By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Navy on Friday intercepted a boat carrying 75 migrants attempting to undertake the perilous “backway” journey to Europe, authorities said.
In a statement issued on March 13, 2026, the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) said naval personnel intercepted the vessel within the country’s territorial waters near Dog Island at around 9 a.m.
“The naval personnel intercepted a vessel carrying 75 individuals who were attempting to undertake the dangerous sea journey at approximately 0900 hours,” the statement said.
According to the GAF, the group consisted of 70 men and five women from several West African countries. Preliminary screening indicated that the migrants included five Gambians, 22 Senegalese, three Guineans from Conakry, three Ivorians, and 42 Malians.
The military said naval officers secured the individuals following the interception and later handed them over to relevant national authorities for further screening and processing in accordance with established migration management procedures.
The operation, the statement added, forms part of ongoing efforts by the armed forces to curb irregular migration and protect the country’s maritime domain.
“The operation highlights the Gambia Armed Forces’ continued vigilance and commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial waters, while also supporting broader national and regional efforts to address irregular migration and related transnational challenges,” the statement said.
Authorities also warned of the dangers associated with irregular migration by sea, noting that migrants often travel in overcrowded and unsafe vessels and may fall victim to human traffickers and smugglers.
The armed forces urged the public, particularly young people, to avoid such journeys and instead pursue safer and lawful opportunities.
“Many migrants risk their lives on overcrowded boats and often fall prey to human traffickers and smugglers. The public, particularly young people, are therefore strongly urged to avoid such perilous journeys and to seek safer and lawful opportunities.”
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