Moroccan Navy Rescues 56 Migrants Bound for the Canary Islands

Thursday 07 December 2023 - 10:00

In a commendable humanitarian effort, the Royal Moroccan Navy intercepted an overcrowded boat carrying 56 migrants off the coast of Morocco this week. The vessel, bound for the Spanish Canary Islands, held 54 sub-Saharan Africans and 2 Bangladeshi nationals, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by migrants attempting the perilous sea crossing.

The Moroccan General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces reported that a Moroccan patrol vessel discovered the migrant boat approximately 32 km from the coast near Tarfaya. Recognizing the unseaworthy condition of the vessel for the long journey to the Canaries, the Moroccan sailors acted swiftly to bring the migrants aboard their naval ship. There, the rescued individuals were provided with essential necessities, including food, water, and medical care.

Ensuring the well-being of the migrants remained a top priority, the naval crew safely transported them to the port at Tarfaya. Subsequently, Moroccan gendarmerie officials took charge of processing the migrants. This strategic operation by the Moroccan Navy not only averted a potential tragic loss of life in the waters between Morocco and the Canaries but also emphasized the expanding role of the navy in both coastal security and humanitarian relief along its southern shores.

The incident sheds light on the escalating trend of migrants opting for the dangerous sea route from Africa to the Spanish islands in their quest for entry into Europe. Unfortunately, such journeys are fraught with hazards, often resulting in capsizing or shipwrecks.

The Moroccan Navy's proactive intervention in this recent rescue underscores its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining security in the face of growing challenges posed by irregular migration. The article stands as a testament to the pivotal role played by the navy in addressing the humanitarian crisis and fortifying coastal defenses.