Bargny police successfully intercepted 108 migrants attempting dangerous sea voyage to Spain via Atlantic route. Police Nationale
Bargny Police Interception of 108 Migrant Prevents Maritime Departure
The operation was executed on Sococim Minam beach by the National Division for the Fight against Migrant Trafficking (DNLT) and the Bargny police’s River and Maritime Brigade.
The interception followed intelligence about a canoe preparing to depart for the Canary Islands, enabling a targeted law enforcement response.
Authorities apprehended 78 migrants directly on the canoe while 31 others were arrested separately at the Bargny police station.
Diverse Group Highlights Atlantic Migratory Route Risks
The intercepted group included 75 Senegalese, 31 Guineans, 2 Malians, and 1 Nigerien, demonstrating the widespread use of the Atlantic migratory route.
Investigations revealed migrants had paid between 300,000 and 600,000 CFA francs for the journey, exposing economic pressures driving irregular migration.
The migrants spent two days aboard the canoe, facing repeated delays due to fuel shortages that increased the risk of maritime accidents.
Tensions Facilitate Arrests Along Bargny Coast
Prolonged waiting periods and difficult travel conditions led some migrants to leave the canoe and head toward shore, enabling arrests by law enforcement.
The operation demonstrates the effectiveness of monitoring group behavior and anticipating movements during illegal migration attempts.
Organizers Apprehended, Smuggling Network Disrupted
Authorities also arrested two suspected organizers, who now face prosecution for criminal conspiracy, attempted migrant smuggling, fraud, and endangering human lives.
The arrests emphasize ongoing efforts to dismantle migrant smuggling networks along the Atlantic migratory route.
Regional Context and Maritime Security Measures
Senegal has experienced recurring illegal migration incidents targeting Spain and the Canary Islands, posing significant maritime risks.
International organizations, including UNHCR and IOM, have consistently reported on overcrowding, insufficient supplies, and the threat of drowning during such voyages.
The Bargny migrant interception contributes to regional efforts to manage migration, enhance maritime security, and reduce loss of life at sea.
DNLT officials stated that Bargny migrant interception operations are part of a strategic effort to curtail illegal migration while protecting human lives.
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Authorities continue to monitor coastal departure points and engage communities in awareness campaigns, reinforcing Senegal’s commitment to maritime security along the Atlantic migratory route.
