Bodies of 30 migrants found off Senegal coast in decomposing state

At least 30 decomposing bodies were found on a boat off the coast of Senegal, reported Reuters, citing the Senegalese military. The boat, where the bodies of migrants were found, was located about 69 kilometres from Dakar, the capital city of Senegal located on the coast.

The navy was informed about the boat's presence on Sunday evening, and a patrol boat was sent to the location immediately. "Thus far, 30 bodies have been counted," stated the Senegalese military. The bodies were in a state of advanced decomposition, which significantly impedes their identification.

The Senegalese military announced the initiation of an investigation to precisely determine the number of victims and the origin of the boat. Migrants from Africa most commonly use the route leading across the Atlantic, that is, from the coasts of West Africa to the Canary Islands. It is one of the most dangerous migratory routes.

According to the organization Walking Borders, nearly 5,000 migrants died at sea in the first five months of this year while trying to reach the Canary Islands.

Also this month, a boat with 89 people on board capsized off the coast of Senegal, which led to the death of at least 37 people. Many migrants leaving West Africa through Senegal are fleeing conflicts, poverty, and lack of jobs.

Since the beginning of the year, over 22,300 people arrived at the Canary Islands, which is an increase of 126% compared to the same period last year, according to the Spanish Ministry of Internal Affairs.

As reported by the "Independent", last month the Senegalese army conducted a 12-day operation, during which 453 migrants and members of smuggling networks were arrested. More than half of those detained were citizens of Senegal.