Nouadhibou, Mauritania (Running Africa) — At least 143 refugees and migrants are dead or missing after a boat carrying around 160 people drifted in the Atlantic Ocean for 25 days before reaching Mauritania, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The vessel, which departed from The Gambia bound for Europe, arrived in the coastal city of Nouadhibou on July 18 with only 38 survivors and several bodies on board, underscoring the growing humanitarian crisis along one of the world’s deadliest migration routes.

Boat Ran Out of Fuel During Atlantic Crossing

Mauritanian authorities said the boat became stranded after running out of fuel, leaving passengers adrift for weeks without adequate food, water or medical assistance.

The migrants were attempting to reach Spain’s Canary Islands, a route increasingly used by people fleeing conflict, poverty and economic hardship across sub-Saharan Africa.

The Atlantic crossing is considered one of the most dangerous migration corridors in the world due to unpredictable weather, long distances and the frequent use of overcrowded, unseaworthy vessels.

Children Among Survivors

Among the 38 survivors were two children who reportedly lost their entire families during the voyage.

Both children are receiving medical treatment in hospital as humanitarian agencies work alongside Mauritanian authorities to provide emergency assistance and identify the victims.

The nationalities of those on board have not been fully confirmed, although UNHCR said the passengers were predominantly from sub-Saharan African countries.

Deadly Atlantic Migration Route Claims More Lives

Thousands of African migrants and refugees attempt the perilous journey to Europe each year in search of safety, employment and better living conditions.

Despite repeated warnings from humanitarian organizations, many continue to risk the crossing aboard overcrowded fishing boats operated by human smuggling networks.

The latest tragedy comes only weeks after rescue operations off the Mauritanian coast saved 387 migrants, highlighting both the scale of migration along the Atlantic route and the persistent dangers faced by those attempting the journey.

UNHCR Calls Attention to Growing Humanitarian Crisis

The UN refugee agency says the incident is another reminder of the urgent need for stronger international efforts to address irregular migration, expand safe migration pathways and combat human trafficking networks operating along the West African coast.

As search and recovery efforts continue, the disaster adds to a growing toll of lives lost on the Atlantic migration route, reinforcing concerns over one of the world’s most lethal pathways for migrants seeking to reach Europe.