Starving migrants found off Spain

Thousands of migrants attempt to make the crossing to Spain every year

More than 30 African migrants, weak from hunger and thirst, have been rescued off the coast of Spain - but another 15 died, Spanish police say.

Most of the dead were young children, whose bodies were thrown overboard.

Spanish coastguards rescued 33 people from the boat, which had been adrift for days after its motor failed.

It is the second such incident off the south of Spain in a week. On Monday 14 Africans were presumed drowned after a boat capsized in rough seas.

Another 23 people were pulled alive from the water in that incident.

Carried ashore

In the latest rescue, a Spanish spokesman said the migrants were recovered overnight from their boat about 40km (25 miles) off the coast of southern Spain, after they had survived five days at sea.

They were very weak, and some had to be carried ashore for medical assistance.

Spain is a major destination for African migrants trying to reach Europe by sea.

Thousands of Africans are believed to have died while trying to reach Spain in the past few years.

Spain has strengthened offshore patrols and stepped up repatriation efforts, prompting some migrants to attempt longer, more difficult sea routes.