A boat with migrants capsized today in off the coast of Dakar, as a result at least 15 people to lose their livesannounced the president of Senegal Macky Sall.

The accident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning near one of the country’s most popular beaches, in the Wacam area.

“I am deeply saddened by the death of about 15 Senegalese in the shipwreck off the coast of Dakar. Heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.” President Sall wrote in a post on Twitter.

Babakar Diallo, a fisherman who went out at dawn to prepare his boat, said he saw “at least 12 bodies on the shore” and “two survivors” who got away safely.

Local fishermen also notified the authorities, so that a search and rescue operation could follow with the participation of the navy, the fire brigade, divers and volunteers.

In Senegal, an increase in migration flows to Spain’s Canary Islands is recorded. Although such shipwrecks are frequent, would-be immigrants are undaunted and risk their lives in a desperate attempt to seek a better future.

On July 13, the Senegalese navy intercepted a boat with about 70 people on board, who aspired to reach Spain.