Deaths of African migrants reaching El Hierro surge to 33 in 2024, up from 11 last year, due to dangerous voyages.

The Canary Island of El Hierro is witnessing a sharp rise in deaths among African migrants, with 33 dead or dying shortly after arriving this year, up from 11 in 2023. Migrants often discard their IDs to avoid deportation, complicating identification efforts. The surge is partly due to smugglers exploiting instability in West Africa, leading to more crowded and dangerous voyages. Dehydration, hypothermia, and drinking seawater are common causes of death.

3 months ago
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