Djibouti boat accident leaves 109 migrants dead near Obock

At least 109 migrants, including 15 children, have died after a vessel carrying more than 300 people capsized off the coast of Djibouti. The boat, which was traveling from Djibouti toward Yemen, sank north of the town of Obock between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Emergency rescue teams and local authorities are currently searching for dozens of people who remain missing at sea following the tragedy.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the vessel was carrying between 305 and 350 passengers when it overturned. Among the 109 bodies recovered so far are 52 men, 42 women, and 15 children. While search operations continue, approximately 80 to 82 survivors have been rescued and are receiving assistance. All identified survivors are Ethiopian nationals who were attempting the perilous journey across the Red Sea.

IOM officials, including Alexandre Coissac, described the incident as a devastating loss of life. The organization is currently providing medical care and emergency aid to survivors on the ground in Obock, while local authorities are coordinating burial arrangements for the victims. The disaster was brought to light when survivors managed to reach the shore and report the sinking to IOM staff, triggering the immediate deployment of search and rescue resources.

This tragedy underscores the extreme dangers faced by migrants from the Horn of Africa, particularly those from Ethiopia, who seek economic opportunities in Gulf countries. Despite the ongoing civil conflict in Yemen, the maritime route remains a frequent passage for those fleeing poverty and climate-related challenges. In the wake of the accident, the IOM has reiterated its call for the establishment of safer, legal migration pathways to prevent further loss of life in the region.