According to the migrant relief organization Caminando Fronteras, at least 44 migrants drowned after their boat sank off the coast of Western Sahara.

Twelve other people escaped the catastrophe, which occurred when the boat capsized off the coast of Cap Boujdour, according to the agency’s Helena Maleno.

According to Maleno, the surviving were apprehended.

The bodies of seven victims were carried back to shore, but the bodies of the remaining victims could not be recovered, she added.

There was no quick confirmation from Moroccan officials, who consider disputed Western Sahara to be a part of the North African monarchy.

It was unclear where the boat was going, although most migrants departing that region attempt to reach Spain’s Canary Islands.

Morocco is a major transit hub for migrants seeking a better life in Europe.

Morocco and Spain issued a joint statement on Friday pledging to deepen their cooperation against irregular migration.

According to interior ministry estimates, more than 14,700 attempted irregular departures were halted and 52 people-smuggling networks were dismantled in Morocco during the first three months of this year.

Last year, Moroccan officials prevented over 63,120 crossings and busted down 256 smuggling networks.

According to the Spanish Interior Ministry, around 40,000 migrants will arrive in Spain by the sea in 2021.

According to Caminando Fronteras, 4,404 migrants perished or went missing while attempting to reach Spain in the same year.

For the latest International News Follow BOL News on Google News. Read more on Latest International News on oldsite.bolnews.com