The Senegalese Navy has launched a large-scale search and rescue operation after a patrol boat capsized in rough seas at the mouth of the Senegal River, leaving three sailors missing. In a statement issued Thursday evening, the Senegalese Armed Forces said 10 crew members were rescued and the wreckage of the vessel recovered. The incident occurred at around 9 a.m. as the boat was conducting a routine liaison mission.
Military officials said the vessel encountered strong waves following a sudden deterioration in weather conditions, causing it to overturn near the river’s estuary in northern Senegal. Search efforts involving air, sea and land units are continuing, with rescue teams racing against time to locate the missing sailors.
The Senegal River stretches about 1,640 kilometres and forms a natural border between Senegal and Mauritania, flowing into the Atlantic Ocean near Saint-Louis. The area is known for strong currents and challenging maritime conditions, particularly during periods of unstable weather.
