Police have provided a significant update today regarding the tragic deaths of over 70 migrants, believed to be victims of “murders” as they attempted to reach the Canary Islands. Local authorities in Gran Canaria have confirmed the arrest of multiple individuals as part of an ongoing criminal probe following the fatalities during the migrants’ journey to the island. Approximately 320 people embarked on the boat voyage in late August, but only 248 individuals managed to reach the Canary Islands safely.
Reports suggest that some migrants were allegedly killed and thrown into the Atlantic Ocean. Survivors have claimed that an unspecified number of victims were shot after the overcrowded boat experienced engine issues, according to information from okdiario. The authorities have stated that arrests have been made in connection with the investigation, which is now being managed by a court in the southern region of the holiday destination.
A spokesperson from the National Police mentioned, “An inquiry has been initiated following the rescue of a migrant vessel en route to the Canary Islands last month. At this stage, the exact count of fatalities cannot be confirmed as the case is still under investigation by the police. Several individuals allegedly associated with these incidents were apprehended recently. They will undergo questioning by the authorities before facing legal proceedings in the upcoming days.”
Unverified reports initially released by the Spanish news outlet, Okdiario, indicated that approximately 20 to 30 migrants currently housed in refugee centers in the Canary Islands are under scrutiny for their alleged involvement in the sea “executions.” The reports suggest that disputes arose among passengers over water shortages, escalating to accusations of witchcraft before the vessel was rescued after being adrift for over a week.
The rescue operation took place west of the city of Dakhla in the disputed Western Sahara territory, approximately 265 miles from the Canary Islands, following a distress call from a passing merchant ship on August 24. Upon reaching the shores of Arguineguin on the southern coast of Gran Canaria on August 25, survivors recounted harrowing tales of fellow migrants succumbing to thirst, hunger, and delirium induced by dehydration, while some resorted to throwing themselves overboard.
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