Senegalese migrants arrive in Canary Islands
Two boats carrying 197 people from Senegal landed on El Hierro island in the Spanish Canaries.
Two boats that departed from Senegal have arrived in the Canary Islands with a total of 197 migrants. The first pirogue, carrying 107 people including 99 men, five women, and three minors, reached La Restinga port on Sunday. The second boat, rescued on Monday, brought 90 individuals, including 11 women and 13 children.
Migrants arriving on El Hierro were met by the Red Cross, the Canary Islands Emergency Service, and authorities. Two individuals required hospital treatment, while the others were taken to a temporary reception center. The boats were escorted by the 'Salvamar Navia' rescue vessel.
The arrivals highlight the ongoing dangerous journeys undertaken by migrants attempting to reach Europe. The Spanish Canaries are a common destination for those crossing the Atlantic from West Africa.
Why it mattersSenegalese migrants are undertaking dangerous sea journeys to reach the Spanish Canary Islands.