In a harrowing incident this morning (Friday), a small boat carrying 65 people, including a baby, reached Las Burras Beach in Playa Del Ingles, Gran Canaria, on its own. Maritime Rescue reported the arrival, highlighting the critical condition of several of the passengers who collapsed on the beach after disembarking the boat.
According to provisional reports from CECOES, the arrival triggered a large-scale emergency response. On the shore, a medical helicopter, four ambulances, and a Rapid Intervention Vehicle were on standby to assist the passengers due to their dire health conditions, who were helped off the boat by members of the public.
In total, twelve people were taken to hospitals: six to Negrín Hospital (four in serious condition and one with minor injuries), and five to Hospital Insular (two in critical condition evacuated by helicopter, and the rest in serious condition). The baby was taken to Materno de Gran Canaria with her mother for routine observation.
Images from the scene depict a distressing situation, with a national police officer supporting an exhausted passenger while another lies on the sand, receiving aid from Canary Islands Emergency Service (SUC) personnel.
The SUC continues to coordinate the medical assistance response from their Operations Room, ensuring that everyone receives the care they urgently need. The arrival of the boat highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the perilous journeys undertaken by those seeking a better life.
