Spain: Tragic Boat Sinking Claims 50 Lives, Including 44 Pakistanis

A migrant boat capsized in the Atlantic Ocean while attempting to reach Spain, resulting in the deaths of 50 people, including 44 Pakistanis.

According to Walking Borders, a migrant rights organization, the ill-fated boat had set sail from Mauritania on January 2, carrying 86 passengers, of whom 66 were Pakistanis. The vessel was an route to Spain when it encountered disaster. Despite efforts, only 36 individuals could be rescued, while the rest perished.

Many of the victims had embarked on their journey four months ago, hoping to find a better future in Europe. Among the deceased, 12 were from Gujrat, Pakistan**.

The organization *Alarm Phone* reported that the boat had been missing for six days, and authorities from multiple countries were informed.

On January 12, Spain’s Maritime Rescue Service was alerted, but they claimed they had no information about the missing vessel.

According to Walking Borders, 10,457 migrants lost their lives attempting to reach Spain in 2024, marking a record-breaking toll.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and demanded an immediate report from the concerned authorities.

Prime Minister’s Office release a statement condolences to the families of the Pakistani victims. Human traffickers responsible for this tragedy will face strict action.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that the government is actively combating human smuggling, and no leniency would be shown towards those involved.

This devastating incident underscores the urgent need for stronger regulations against human trafficking. The Pakistani government and international community must work together to protect vulnerable migrants and prevent such tragedies in the future.