Shipwreck off the coast of Lompoul: the death toll rises to 39

The sinking of a canoe carrying candidates for irregular migration off the coast of Lompoul, in the Kébémer department, left 39 dead and only one survivor, according to the latest report released this Monday. Search operations are continuing to find possible other victims.

The toll from the shipwreck which occurred off the coast of Lompoul continues to rise. Four new bodies, found Monday morning in an advanced state of decomposition, were discovered during search operations. A collective funeral prayer was organized by the firefighters before their burial.

For three days, rescue teams have been mobilized on a coastal strip of approximately 25 kilometers, whose particularly difficult access complicates operations. Sea currents also constitute a major obstacle, gradually carrying bodies southwards, according to rescuers.

Of the 39 victims recorded, 24 bodies were identified and returned to their families. Eleven other remains remain awaiting identification. Alongside the rescue operations, an investigation was opened to determine the exact circumstances of the tragedy. As part of the investigations, cans of gasoline were seized.

The Minister of the Interior and Public Security went to the scene to inquire about developments in the situation and the progress of search operations.