Coastguards in the Canary Islands rescued a mother and her newborn baby who were aboard a migrant boat crossing the Atlantic Ocean. The rescue took place on Monday, January 7th.
The rescue vessel, the Talía, came across the overcrowded rubber dinghy approximately 60 people, including 14 women and four children, off the coast of Lanzarote. Photos shared on social media showed passengers working together to create space for the mother and child, highlighting the collaborative spirit during a challenging sea journey.
The crew of the Talía shared their appreciation on social media, expressing their admiration for the efforts of the crew who routinely assist those attempting to reach the Canary Islands.
"Christmas ends in the Canaries with the rescue of a baby born in the middle of a sea journey," the crew posted, acknowledging the remarkable event. The mother and baby were transported to a hospital in Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote. Medics on board recommended the transfer.
Captain Domingo Trujillo, who previously rescued a newborn in a similar incident in 2020, described the newborn's birth as a "surprise." He recounted finding the mother lying on the boat floor while someone held the infant, stating he covered the baby and comforted it to stop crying.
The rescue occurred on January 6th, coinciding with Three Kings' Day, a Spanish holiday traditionally associated with gift-giving.
