The Gambian Ministry of Defence has issued an update on the devastating migrant boat capsizing near Jinack village in the North Bank Region, confirming that rescue and recovery efforts continue following the New Year’s Eve incident that has claimed numerous lives.
In a press Statement dated January 6, 2026, the ministry reported that 112 individuals had been successfully rescued from the overcrowded vessel, which was carrying West African migrants attempting the perilous journey to Europe’s Canary Islands. The survivors include 54 Gambians, 42 Senegalese, nine from Guinea-Conakry, 3 Malians, 2 Ivoirians, 1 Burkinabe, and 1 Sierra Leonean.
Tragically, 39 deceased persons have been recovered to date, with 24 bodies found within Gambian territory and 15 in neighboring Senegalese waters. Identification and documentation of the victims are ongoing, alongside investigations into the circumstances of the disaster.
All rescued survivors have been transferred to relevant authorities for medical evaluations, psychosocial support, and administrative processing, in compliance with national laws and international humanitarian standards.
The ministry emphasized that operations are being conducted in accordance with established emergency protocols and maritime safety frameworks. It expressed profound gratitude to participating agencies and international partners, singling out the Spanish Guardia Civil for their vital assistance in the maritime response.
This latest update marks a significant increase in the confirmed death toll from earlier reports, which had cited fewer fatalities in the initial days following the capsizing on December 31, 2025. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers of irregular migration routes along the Atlantic coast, where thousands risk their lives annually fleeing economic hardship and seeking better opportunities in Europe.
Authorities have pledged transparent updates as new information emerges, while urging continued international cooperation to address the root causes of such tragedies.
