Two dead as 108 migrants escorted to Gran Canaria after high-risk ocean rescue
Spanish Maritime Rescue confirmed yesterday that 108 migrants were safely escorted to Gran Canaria after being rescued from a cayuco located 275 kilometres southeast of El Hierro. Tragically, two people onboard had already died before help arrived, highlighting once again the extreme risks faced on the Canary migration route.
The operation began early on Wednesday when the cayuco was detected far offshore on one of the most dangerous stretches of the Atlantic Route. The Guardamar Urania was deployed to the scene and undertook the rescue in very challenging maritime conditions. According to Maritime Rescue, the group included around twenty women and three minors.
Sea conditions at the time were described as “adverse,” with waves reaching between 2.5 and 3 metres and winds of 28 to 35 knots. Despite this, the crew managed to transfer all survivors safely onto the rescue vessel while maintaining continuous medical checks during the long return journey to the islands.
The bodies of the two deceased were also taken onboard for transfer to Gran Canaria, where forensic authorities will begin the legal procedures to identify them.
The migrants were taken Arguineguín harbour, a central reception point in the archipelago. Emergency medical teams, Red Cross personnel, and police units were on standby to provide healthcare, humanitarian assistance, and initial processing upon arrival.
Maritime Rescue confirmed that the merchant vessels Sarah M and Eurostar supported the operation, with the Eurostar remaining in position near the cayuco until the Guardamar Urania reached the scene, helping ensure the safety of the drifting vessel in difficult seas.
This incident once again highlights the deadly reality of the Atlantic migration route. The Canary Route remains the most lethal entry point to Europe, with more than 1,900 migrants recorded as missing or dead in 2025.
Authorities continue to warn that despite increased patrols, the sheer distance, volatile weather, and fragile condition of many vessels make the journey exceptionally perilous.
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