The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a UN agency, reported on Sunday that at least 109 migrants, including 15 children, have died after their boat capsized off the coast of Djibouti. The incident occurred on October 8-9, while the boat was traveling from Djibouti to Yemen, carrying around 305 people. According to IOM, over 80 survivors, all Ethiopians, were rescued.
The boat capsized near the area of Guhere, north of the coastal city of Obock in Djibouti. IOM stated that the survivors' accounts suggest the boat was carrying migrants seeking economic opportunities. The incident highlights the risks faced by migrants along the migration route. IOM's Djibouti mission head, Alexander Kwasak, emphasized that the tragedy is a stark reminder of the dangers migrants face.
The IOM reported that among the 109 recovered bodies, there were 52 men, 42 women, and 15 children, including nine girls and six boys. The Djiboutian authorities are continuing search and rescue operations, providing medical care to survivors, and arranging for the burial of the deceased. The incident has raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in the region.
The boat accident occurred amid escalating conflict in Yemen, which has led to a significant increase in displacement. The IOM reported that over 200,000 people have been displaced, compared to 76,000 in mid-September. The conflict has also led to an increase in migrants fleeing Yemen by sea to Djibouti, with over 3,700 people making the journey so far.
The conflict in Yemen has intensified, with the government, backed by Saudi Arabia, and the Houthi group, supported by Iran, engaging in fierce fighting. The renewed conflict has raised concerns about the impact on shipping routes in the Red Sea. The IOM has described the crisis as a cause for concern, with thousands of people affected.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by migrants and refugees in the region. The IOM and local authorities are providing emergency assistance to survivors and supporting the burial of the deceased. The organization has emphasized the need for urgent humanitarian assistance to address the crisis.
The boat accident off the Djibouti coast is the latest in a series of incidents affecting migrants and refugees in the region. The IOM continues to monitor the situation and provide support to those affected. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of migrants and refugees in the region.
Key points
- At least 109 migrants, including 15 children, died in a boat accident off the coast of Djibouti.
- The incident occurred amid escalating conflict in Yemen, which has led to a significant increase in displacement.
- The IOM reported that over 80 survivors, all Ethiopians, were rescued and are receiving medical care.
