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Spanish rescuers save 44 migrants from a makeshift boat drifting off the Canary Islands after 26 days at sea

Spanish authorities rescued 44 men from a makeshift boat drifting off the coast of the Canary Islands on Wednesday night. The vessel, which departed from Gambia approximately 26 to 27 days ago, carried over 100 people originally. Rescuers from the Maritime Rescue and Safety Society located the boat about 65 miles southwest of the coastal town of ArguineguĂ­n. The 44 survivors, all of Sub-Saharan African origin from Mali or Senegal, were disoriented and dehydrated. Three of the survivors were in critical condition and were airlifted to a local hospital. Reports regarding the number of fatalities vary. Helena Maleno, head of the NGO Walking Borders, stated that 83 people died during the voyage, including four women and a baby. The Maritime Rescue and Safety Society reported that they were unable to retrieve five bodies from the boat due to strong winds and waves. Fernando Clavijo, president of the Canary Islands, stated that the incident highlights the need for a state migration policy. He noted that the Atlantic route remains a significant route of death for migrants.

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