The Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture and Maritime Fisheries announced on November 4, 2026, that the possible wreckage site of the traditional fishing boat "Lalla Khadija" had been located. The boat, registered under number 7-7016, went missing off the coast of Asfi on October 23, 2026, with its crew on board. An intensive search operation was launched immediately after the boat's disappearance, under the supervision of the National Maritime Rescue Coordination Center in Bouznika.
The search operation involved the participation of aerial and naval units from the Royal Moroccan Navy, Royal Gendarmerie, and Royal Air Force, as well as rescue teams from the Ministry of Agriculture and Maritime Fisheries and several commercial ships and fishing boats. The use of specialized underwater cameras confirmed that the boat had sunk and was lying on the seabed, approximately 15 nautical miles off the port of Asfi.
The Ministry stated that specialized diving teams were currently being mobilized to conduct further searches at the identified site. The search operation aims to locate the crew members of the missing boat. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of traditional fishing boats and the challenges faced by fishermen in Moroccan waters.
The "Lalla Khadija" boat was a traditional fishing vessel that operated in Moroccan waters. The crew members were experienced fishermen who had been operating in the area for several years. The investigation into the cause of the boat's disappearance is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Moroccan authorities have been working to improve maritime safety and rescue operations in recent years. The National Maritime Rescue Coordination Center in Bouznika plays a crucial role in coordinating search and rescue operations in Moroccan waters. The center is equipped with advanced technology and personnel trained to respond to maritime emergencies.
The incident highlights the risks faced by fishermen in Moroccan waters and the importance of ensuring their safety. The government has been working to improve the safety of fishing boats and provide support to fishermen and their families. The search operation for the crew members of the "Lalla Khadija" boat continues, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Moroccan government has announced plans to enhance maritime safety measures and provide additional support to fishermen. The incident has also raised concerns about the impact of climate change on maritime safety and the need for increased investment in search and rescue operations.
Key points
- Moroccan authorities locate possible wreckage site of missing fishing boat "Lalla Khadija" off coast of Asfi.
