Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad says it is working with Spanish authorities and international partners to establish the facts surrounding a reported boat incident involving migrants.
In a statement issued on Friday, September 4, 2026, the Ministry expressed “deep sadness” over the reported incident and extended condolences to families and loved ones affected, while acknowledging the distress caused by the uncertainty surrounding the whereabouts of those who may have been on board.
The Ministry said the identities and nationalities of the reported passengers have not yet been officially verified.
Vessel may have departed The Gambia
According to the Ministry, preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia. However, it stressed that this information remains subject to verification.
The government is engaging Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to determine what happened and establish the accuracy of information currently circulating.
Through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, the Ministry said it is also maintaining contact with relevant partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), where appropriate.
The objective, it said, is to facilitate information-sharing and support efforts to clarify the situation.
Warning against unverified reports
The Ministry urged the public to exercise caution over information that has not been officially confirmed, warning that inaccurate reports could deepen the distress of families waiting for news about their relatives.
“Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified,” the Ministry said.
The statement comes amid continued concerns over the dangers faced by migrants undertaking irregular sea journeys from West Africa to Europe.
The Ministry reiterated its concern about the risks associated with such journeys and called for continued cooperation among governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.
It said it understands the “distress and uncertainty” being experienced by families who may have relatives missing and thanked the public for its patience and cooperation as efforts to establish the facts continue.
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