60 migrants intercepted in inflatable boat off Fuerteventura
An inflatable boat carrying 60 people was intercepted yesterday, Tuesday near Fuerteventura, as reported by Maritime Rescue. They were located about 35 miles off the coast after the Guardia Civil alerted authorities to its departure from Tarfaya on the northwest African coast.
Of the 60 people aboard, 53 were men and 7 were women. All were taken aboard the rescue vessel Salvamar Izar and were transported to Gran Tarajal, where they were met by the Red Cross and medical personnel. After being assessed they were taken to reception centres on the island.
Although this rescue highlights the ongoing reality of irregular maritime migration in the region, official data shows a notable decline in arrivals to the Canary Islands compared with the record-breaking figures of the last few years.
In 2025, irregular maritime arrivals to the archipelago fell approximately 62%, with around 17,788 people recorded as reaching the islands compared with over 47,000 in 2024 — a year that saw the highest number of arrivals on record by sea.
Experts attribute this decline to a combination of enhanced maritime patrols and cooperation with North African countries, including intelligence sharing and crackdowns on smuggling networks, which have helped curb departures along the Western African “Canary Route”.
Despite the decrease, the issue remains highly visible and continues to place pressure on local reception facilities and social services in the islands. The Canary Islands have long been one of Spain’s main entry points for irregular arrivals from West Africa due to their geographical proximity, and temporary accommodation centres have frequently faced overcrowding challenges during periods of sustained arrivals.
In addition, the situation has broader national and EU implications. Spanish authorities face ongoing debates over redistribution of unaccompanied minors who arrive in the archipelago and other hotspots, with tensions reported over how regions such as the Balearic Islands are included in relocation schemes administered by the central government.
Human Impact and Risks at Sea
Each year, thousands risk dangerous sea crossings in overcrowded or unseaworthy vessels. While the number of arrivals has fallen, migrant journeys remain perilous — with many lives lost in the attempt to reach European shores.
International organisations continue to report deaths along migration routes and emphasise the humanitarian dimension of irregular migration across the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
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