UN reports 144 migrants dead off Mauritania

The UN refugee agency UNHCR reported that 144 refugees and migrants were dead or missing off Mauritania after a dangerous West Africa-to-Europe sea crossing, with three rescue operations between July 14-18 bringing 387 people ashore. One vessel from Bufalo, Gambia, carried 143 dead or missing and only 38 survivors, including two orphaned children, were rescued after nearly 25 days at sea. Another death was reported on a different vessel that disembarked on July 14, contributing to the toll and deaths on these perilous journeys. UNHCR spokesperson Matt Saltmarsh emphasized that the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands remains one of the world’s deadliest mixed-movement corridors due to long distances, rough seas, overcrowded boats, and limited rescue access. By 2026, 17 disembarkations have been recorded in Nouadhibou and Nouakchott, with about 2,147 people rescued, while overall sea arrivals to Europe are down versus 2025 but deaths stay at alarming levels. The UN urged expanding access to education and labor opportunities to offer safer, legal alternatives to these dangerous crossings.