Pape Dieye in Guet N’dar, Senegal on October 7.
Ricci Shryock for NPR
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Ricci Shryock for NPR
Pape Dieye in Guet N’dar, Senegal on October 7.
Ricci Shryock for NPR
His years as a captain on the Atlantic Ocean shaped Pape Dieye’s calm and reassuring presence.
He is not afraid of ferocious, mountain-like waves. He doesn’t need GPS. He can sail a boat in the dark using nothing but the moon and stars. He can tell how deep the water is just by its color.
His experience has made him a highly sought-after captain in Senegal’s underground business of bringing migrants to Europe by boat.
Many people begged him, but he told NPR why he always refused.
Listen to our full report by clicking or tapping the play button above.
