At least seven people have died and a significant number are missing after a vessel transporting around 200 people seeking to enter European shores sank in waters near Gambia, authorities say.
The boat overturned in the early hours of Thursday near Jinack in the northern bank region and it was subsequently discovered "grounded on a sandbank", the nation's defense ministry announced officially.
96 individuals have been saved to date and a rescue operation continues for the remaining passengers who were aboard the sunken boat that was heading towards Spain's Canary Islands.
The perilous journey over the the Atlantic has emerged as a rising pathway for African asylum seekers seeking entry into the EU.
Close to 47,000 people reached the Canaries in last year and figures suggest over 9,000 people perished trying.
Rescue Operation
After Wednesday's accident, the navy initiated a rescue mission, deploying several naval vessels and a fishing boat that offered help, the military confirmed.
Authorities say some of the deceased are foreign nationals and that their nationalities are still under confirmation.
The deceased of the seven individuals who drowned have been recovered, and ten of the survivors are reported to be in serious condition and getting immediate medical attention.
An Established Corridor
Gambia is a common pathway taken by migrants attempting to enter European countries, frequently via dangerous journeys over water and land.
Over the past few years, the European Union has reached agreements with multiple North African nations with the goal of reducing undocumented migration.
