A migrant boat carrying people from West Africa has been at the centre of a deadly maritime tragedy after being discovered drifting near Spain’s Canary Islands.

Spanish Maritime Rescue authorities said one of their aircraft spotted the vessel approximately 120 kilometres south of Gran Canaria on Wednesday. A rescue operation was launched, and 44 migrants were eventually brought to safety.

44 Survivors Rescued

Three of the rescued migrants were in serious condition and were evacuated by helicopter to a hospital. The remaining survivors were taken to the port of Arguineguín, where Red Cross teams provided medical assistance.

All 44 survivors were men, including some minors, and were from Mali or Senegal, according to the Red Cross. Many were severely dehydrated and disoriented after spending an extended period at sea.

Nearly a Month Adrift

Survivors told aid workers that the journey began in Gambia and lasted for roughly 27 days.

During the voyage, supplies reportedly ran out, leaving those on board without adequate food and drinking water. Some survivors said they eventually became ill after drinking seawater.

The extreme conditions reportedly took a devastating toll on those aboard the vessel.

Dozens More Feared Dead

Helena Maleno, founder of migrant rights organisation Walking Borders, said survivors reported that 83 people had died during the crossing. According to her account, the reported victims included three women and a baby.

However, Reuters said it could not independently verify the figure of 83 deaths. Spanish Maritime Rescue authorities officially confirmed that five bodies were found aboard the boat. Rough seas, strong winds and waves reaching around 2.5 metres prevented rescuers from immediately recovering the remains.

One of Europe’s Most Dangerous Migration Routes

The Atlantic route from West Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands is considered one of the most dangerous migration corridors to Europe. Migrants attempting the crossing often face long distances, unpredictable weather and overcrowded or poorly equipped vessels.

The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the enormous risks faced by people attempting the journey in search of safety and better opportunities in Europe.