Africa-Press – Gambia. President Adama Barrow has expressed deep sorrow over a maritime accident off the coast of Jinack Village in the North Bank Region, which left several people dead and many others injured or rescued.
In a nationwide address on Friday, President Barrow said the incident occurred around midnight on 31 December 2025 when a boat, reportedly carrying an unspecified number of irregular migrants, capsized at sea.
He said 102 people had so far been rescued, with several receiving urgent medical care, while seven bodies had been recovered.
Search and rescue operations are continuing to locate those still missing.
President Barrow announced that the National Emergency Response Plan had been activated, with government agencies deploying resources to intensify rescue efforts and provide immediate assistance to survivors.
On behalf of the government and people of The Gambia, the president extended his condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected, assuring relatives awaiting news that the nation stands in solidarity with them.
He commended personnel of The Gambia Navy for their swift and courageous response after receiving the distress alert, as well as other security and emergency services for their professionalism.
He also praised health workers at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital and other facilities for their efforts to treat the injured, and acknowledged the support of community volunteers, particularly local fishermen.
Describing the tragedy as a reminder of the dangers of irregular migration, President Barrow said no journey was worth the loss of life. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening measures to curb irregular migration and to expanding development, employment, and livelihood opportunities for young people.
The President urged citizens to remain calm and compassionate as rescue operations continue, adding that verified details on the victims would be released as they become available. He also announced that a full investigation would be launched into the incident.
President Barrow concluded by offering prayers for the deceased, the injured and their families, as well as for those involved in the rescue efforts.
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