Canary Islands migrant boat tragedy claims woman and infant lives

A overloaded migrant cayuco was intercepted off El Hierro in the Canary Islands after an eleven‑day Atlantic crossing from West Africa. The vessel, which left Banjul (Gambia) carrying people from Senegal, Gambia, Guinea and Mali, had about 165 occupants. Spanish maritime rescue services, including Salvamento Marítimo and medical helicopters, towed the boat to La Restinga and transferred the most severely ill to Hospital Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria in Tenerife.

One woman, identified by companions as Binta Colly, was found dead and a six‑month‑old infant died after a cardiac arrest despite intensive care. At least 14‑15 migrants were hospitalized, several in critical condition. Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo described the incident as a new tragedy on the Atlantic migration route and called for greater European solidarity and a common migration policy.

The incident highlights ongoing pressure on the Canary Islands from irregular maritime arrivals, even as overall numbers from Africa have declined in recent months.