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Moroccan Naval Forces Rescue 124 Migrants in Perilous Sea Crossing

Friday 16 August 2024 - 13:40
Moroccan Naval Forces Rescue 124 Migrants in Perilous Sea Crossing

In a critical maritime operation on Thursday, the Moroccan Royal Navy intercepted a vessel carrying 124 sub-Saharan migrants, including 12 women, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) southwest of Dakhla. The migrants, who were attempting to reach the Canary Islands, found themselves in distress during their hazardous journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

The rescue mission, carried out by a specialized unit of the Royal Navy, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in managing irregular migration patterns in the region. The intercepted vessel, identified as a pirogue, a type of long canoe commonly used in West Africa was detected far off the coast, highlighting the extreme risks taken by individuals seeking to enter European territories.

Following the rescue, the migrants were transported to the military port of Dakhla, located south of the city. Upon arrival, they received necessary medical attention and care before being handed over to the Royal Gendarmerie. This transfer initiates the standard administrative procedures for managing such cases, as confirmed by an official statement from the General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces.

This incident reflects the complex dynamics of migration routes between Africa and Europe, with the Canary Islands serving as a sought-after destination for those attempting to enter Spanish territory. The dangerous nature of these sea crossings continues to pose significant humanitarian concerns and challenges for maritime authorities.

Moroccan naval forces have been actively engaged in monitoring and intercepting unauthorized sea crossings, partnering with European countries to address the multifaceted issues surrounding migration in the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions. This rescue operation exemplifies the ongoing efforts to balance border security with humanitarian responsibilities in one of the world's most active migration corridors.


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