Seven die at El Hierro as boat capsizes

At least seven people – four women and three girls – drowned yesterday when their boat capsized as it was being escorted to El Restinga on El Hierro.

The victims were among 180 migrants who were on board a cayuco (wooden fishing boat) that had been intercepted eight miles out sea. As the boat was escorted to the quayside, the movement of people on board caused it to capsize. Emergency officials, as well as workers from local business and members of a diving club plunged into the water in an attempt to save lives. As well as seven victims, a baby remains missing.

The boat had spent ten days at sea after departing from Guinea Conakry on the 18^th May and at least 20 of the occupants were children.  The incident shows how many migrants are now focusing on an even more dangerous route, departing from further south and heading for the western Canary Islands of El Hierro and Tenerife.

The final approach to shore is among the most dangerous times on these voyages. The worst incidents on Lanzarote – the death of seven at Costa Teguise in 2018 and the drowning of 25 people at Los Cocoteros in 2009 – both occurred when vessels capsized near shore.