Tragedy at sea: Malian refugees found dead near Caribbean island

• A boat with 11 deceased refugees from Mali was found in the Caribbean Sea.
• The vessel was drifting near Canouan Island, approximately 40 kilometres from Saint Vincent.
• The migrants were believed to be heading towards the Canary Islands but were diverted by currents.

Police in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines found a drifting boat in the Caribbean Sea, containing the bodies of 11 individuals. It has been confirmed that they were refugees from Mali, as verified by the passports found with them. This is another tragic occurrence associated with migration from West Africa.

According to the Polish Press Agency, the boat, measuring 13 metres, was discovered near Canouan Island, situated about 40 kilometres from the main island of Saint Vincent. The bodies have been transported to Kingstown, where forensic analyses are to be conducted. In recent months, similar incidents have happened several times in the Lesser Antilles region. In January, 19 bodies of escapees from Mali were discovered in a boat near the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The migrants from Mali likely attempted to reach the Spanish Canary Islands. However, the winds and sea currents diverted them far to the west. Without access to food and water, they could not survive this perilous journey.

Mauritania has become a key transit point for migrants travelling from West Africa to Spain. According to a report by the Spanish Department of National Security, in 2024, more than 25,000 migrants arrived in Spain from Mauritania. This is as many as the combined total of migrants arriving from Morocco and Algeria.

The tragic events in the Caribbean Sea underline the desperation and challenges faced by migrants from West Africa. In seeking a better future, many risk their lives despite the associated dangers. Unfortunately, for many, the dream of a better life ends in tragedy.