Archive · 8 Jan 2026
Gambia migrant boat sinking death toll rises to 39
A boat carrying people trying to reach Europe from West Africa capsized near Gambia.
Sadly, 39 people died, and 112 were saved.
The boat was very crowded and not in good condition.
Many people from different countries were on the boat, including Gambia, Senegal, and others.
They were trying to find better jobs and lives in Europe.
Some people who survived said they were very scared and saw their friends die.
The governments are trying to stop these dangerous trips, and fewer people are trying to go to Europe this way now.
The death toll from a migrant boat capsizing off Gambia's coast on New Year's Eve has risen to 39.
112 people were rescued, with the boat estimated to have carried over 200 passengers.
Survivors described the boat as overcrowded and dilapidated, highlighting the dangers of the migration route.
Migrants were from Gambia, Senegal, Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Sierra Leone, seeking better opportunities in Europe.
Gambia's government intercepted over 2,700 would-be migrants in 2025, and irregular migration to the EU fell by 60%.
- Who
- Europe-bound migrants from Gambia, Senegal, Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Sierra Leone
- What
- A migrant boat capsized off Gambia's coast
- When
- New Year's Eve, with updates as of January 8
- Where
- Off the coast of Gambia, with some bodies recovered in Senegal
- Why
- Migrants were seeking better opportunities in Europe due to poverty and lack of prospects at home
- Death Toll
- 39
- Rescued
- 112
- Estimated On Board
- More than 200
- Countries of Origin
- Gambia, Senegal, Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone
- Destination
- Europe via Canary Islands
- Intercepted Migrants in 2025
- More than 2,700
- Irregular Migration Drop (2025)
- 60%