|
6 April 2009 Reliable information reaching
Foroyaa has it that Thirteen Gambian youths drowned at
sea when the boats they boarded capsized in Libyan
high waters. The boats that are said to have carried
about three hundred economic migrants sunk in the
Libyan waters on Sunday 29th March, in their endeavor
to reach the Italian Island of Lapedusa for greener
pastures.
The Gambians that are confirmed death by Foroyaa as at
now are Bafoday Jaiteh, Bakary Jaiteh, the two share
the same father, Alagie Suwandi Jaiteh, Lamin Kanteh
all from Njaba Kunda in Central Baddibou, Jerreh
Conteh hailed from Katchang in Upper Baddibou,
Abdoulie Kanyi, Sanusi Sillah both residents of
Brikama, Ebrima Dampha and Nyakassi Dampha both from
Farato in the Kombo North, Ensa Dinding Bojang, Ousman
Bojang, Lamin Manneh and one Basolo, all said to be
from Sanyang in the Kombo South District.
This reporter contacted the Foreign Affairs Office for
comment. The Directorate of Protocol, Mr Juma Janneh
said they are tirelessly working hand in hand with the
Libyan authorities to identify Gambians that are said
to have involved in the accident. Janneh indicated
that as at now, they could not ascertain how many
Gambians are dead and how many survived. He added that
his office is receiving conflicting information
concerning the matter, and called on the general
public to provide them with any vital information on
the matter.
This reporter also found the Libyan Ambassador at Mr
Janneh's office; the two were busy working on the
matter.
It could be recalled that in mid February this year, 9
Gambian youths were reported death between the Niger-
Libya borders on their way to Libya when their vehicle
reportedly ran into a land mine.
Many Gambian youths are now in Libya looking for all
possible means to get to Europe for greener pastures.
A returnee told this reporter that many Gambians are
currently in detention in Libya after they were caught
illegally crossing into Libya or in the high seas to
smuggle to Italy. The returnee also added that a good
number of them have been expelled from Libya and are
stranded in Mali. |
Save
Print
Add Comments To This Story