Shipwreck Incident Highlights Migrant Crisis in Equatorial Guinea
On July 20, 2024, a group of 90 migrants faced dire conditions after being abandoned at sea for 19 days while attempting to reach Gabon. Despite initial reports of a shipwreck, the boat was unmoored due to the captain’s abandonment. The Equatorial Guinea Red Cross provided assistance to the survivors, highlighting ongoing issues with their living conditions and the complexities of their potential repatriation.
On July 20, 2024, the National President of the Equatorial Guinea Red Cross was notified of a shipwreck incident near the Rio Campo Cribi sea border between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon. The rescued passengers stated they had been en route to Gabon in search of employment since July 1, 2024. However, subsequent investigations revealed that the boat, abandoned by its captain, remained in international waters for nearly 19 days, leading to the dire situation of the stranded passengers. Contrary to initial beliefs, the vessel did not encounter a traditional shipwreck, but rather, passengers suffered from exposure and adverse conditions over an extended period.
The boat carried 90 individuals from diverse nationalities, including 47 women (30 from Benin and 17 from Togo) and 43 men (10 from Togo, 16 from Benin, 8 from Burkina Faso, 2 from Niger, and 6 from Nigeria). Tragically, one person perished, but 89 were rescued, some sustaining various injuries. The Equatorial Guinea Red Cross provided immediate medical assistance as soon as authorities alerted them to the situation.
A rapid assessment by the Equatorial Guinea Red Cross indicated that the survivors were initially housed in overcrowded quarters at a Gendarmerie facility, where they faced restrictions due to visa complications. Arriving without personal belongings, they urgently required essential supplies, including food, water, and hygiene items. Although authorities proposed better accommodations, the group remained confined for two months, and their living conditions were less than adequate.
By September and October, external support dwindled, with only the Red Cross continuing to provide assistance. Discussions regarding repatriation were ongoing, but no definitive steps had been taken. Following the lessons learned workshop, representatives from the Beninese Consulate indicated that most of the affected individuals from Benin could be repatriated before the end of October 2024, with embassies being urged to organize these efforts.
The boat incident off the coast of Equatorial Guinea highlights significant challenges faced by migrants seeking employment abroad. The lack of adequate shelter and resources for the rescued individuals underscores a need for improved emergency response protocols. Continued international cooperation is critical to ensure the humane treatment and safe repatriation of individuals affected by these types of maritime incidents.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
