Over 40 Pakistanis Feared Drowned Near Dakhla, Morocco

A boat carrying migrants, including over 40 Pakistanis, capsized off the Atlantic coast of West Africa, leading to fears of at least 50 fatalities. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over the tragedy and emphasized the urgent need for stricter measures against human trafficking. The boat, which departed from Mauritania, was reportedly carrying 80 passengers when it capsized near Dakhla, Morocco, a known departure point for those attempting to reach Europe. The migrant rights group Walking Borders confirmed that 44 of the deceased were Pakistani nationals, sparking widespread sorrow in Punjab where families are mourning their lost loved ones. Moroccan authorities rescued 36 individuals, while the Pakistani government is coordinating with Moroccan officials to aid survivors and repatriate victims' bodies. The incident highlights the increasing dangers faced by migrants on perilous routes amid calls for enhanced action against human smuggling operations.