Nineteen men, including a Gambian national, were arrested in Spain following accusations of torturing and executing at least 50 migrants during an Atlantic crossing to Europe. The migrants were reportedly accused of witchcraft, a belief that allegedly led to their brutal deaths. Police in Gran Canaria confirmed the arrests, which occurred after August 25 last year, initiating a full investigation into the harrowing events. The first allegations of mass executions at sea emerged in early September last year, prompting significant concern and leading Spanish police to issue an official statement on September 17. Authorities believe "at least 50 migrants" were killed in the Atlantic during the perilous voyage, their lives tragically cut short amidst desperate circumstances.
Details of the Interception
The grim details began to unfold when Spanish coastguards intercepted an overcrowded cayuco off Dakhla on August 24. This interception led to the rescue of 248 survivors off the African coast, many of whom were in distress. Dakhla, a coastal city, is located 265 miles from the Canary Islands, a common destination for migrants attempting the dangerous sea crossing. The survivors were subsequently transported to Arguineguín, a port situated in the south of Gran Canaria, where they could receive aid and provide key testimony. On September 17, Spanish police released images related to the arrests made in connection with the incident, bringing the investigation further into the public eye. Subsequent reports indicated that 17 men had initially been arrested, comprising 16 Senegalese nationals and one Gambian. Police later confirmed that a total of 19 suspects were ultimately detained in the ongoing investigation, noting the scale of the alleged crimes.
Witness Accounts and Accusations
Witnesses from among the survivors provided harrowing accounts, claiming that fellow migrants were subjected to beatings, shootings, torture, and were then thrown overboard during the perilous journey. Investigators stated that victims were attacked after panic spread on the overcrowded cayuco, creating a volatile and dangerous environment. Smugglers reportedly blamed migrants for the boat's engine failure and dwindling food supplies, seeking scapegoats for the deteriorating conditions. When the engine failed and provisions ran out, those controlling the vessel allegedly turned on some migrants, accusing them of being witches. Migrants were labeled as witches, held responsible for the misfortune encountered during the voyage, particularly the mechanical failures and lack of sustenance. The accused migrants were subsequently executed, and their bodies were then callously dumped into the ocean, a horrific end to their desperate journey.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
In the aftermath of these grave allegations, Moroccan authorities stated they were unable to provide assistance in the case, leaving the Spanish authorities to pursue the investigation. A homicide investigation was subsequently initiated following the allegations of killings at sea, aiming to bring those responsible to justice. All 19 suspects arrested in connection with the incident have been remanded to prison, indicating the seriousness of the charges they face. The suspects have appeared before a Spanish judge, facing preliminary charges as the legal process begins. They are currently under investigation for alleged involvement in people trafficking, homicide, wounding, and torture, according to judicial sources, reflecting the multiple layers of criminal activity uncovered. The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the full extent of the atrocities committed during the Atlantic crossing.