Mauritanian military authorities have launched an urgent search operation after losing contact with a patrol boat carrying seven soldiers during a maritime rescue mission off the coast of Nouakchott. The incident occurred on January 20, 2026, when the vessel was dispatched to assist another disabled patrol boat northwest of the Port of Friendship.
According to official statements, the rescue boat lost communication at approximately 11:00 p.m. local time while attempting to aid the Maksem Boubacar, whose propellers had become entangled in fishing nets. While the Coast Guard successfully towed the disabled vessel to safety, the fate of the seven crew members aboard the second boat remains unknown as of January 22.
Mauritania's Air Force and Navy have deployed multiple assets in ongoing search efforts, with operations continuing through Wednesday evening. Military officials emphasize this marks one of the most complex maritime emergencies in recent years, underscoring challenges in West African coastal security operations.
