139 Migrants, Including 15 Children, Killed as Boat Capsizes off Yemen
According to British media reports, the tragedy occurred during the night of October 8–9 as the vessel was transporting migrants from the African nation of Djibouti towards Yemen.
At least 139 migrants, including 15 children, have died after a boat carrying approximately 350 people from Djibouti to Yemen capsized, leaving more than 116 others missing.
According to British media reports, the tragedy occurred during the night of October 8–9 as the vessel was transporting migrants from the African nation of Djibouti towards Yemen.
More than 80 passengers have been rescued, while search efforts continue amid concerns over the fate of those still missing.
Reports indicate that all of the more than 80 survivors were Ethiopian nationals.
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the bodies recovered so far include 52 men, 42 women, nine girls and six boys.
The disaster highlights the dangers faced by migrants attempting to cross the sea between the Horn of Africa and Yemen in search of employment and better living conditions.
Every year, thousands of migrants from Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea and Djibouti undertake this dangerous journey, hoping to reach Gulf countries for employment, safety and improved economic opportunities.
The International Organization for Migration has repeatedly highlighted the risks associated with this migration route, which connects the Horn of Africa with Yemen and serves as a passage for migrants seeking to reach Gulf states.
The latest tragedy has left at least 109 people dead, including children, while more than 116 remain unaccounted for following one of the deadliest reported incidents on the route.
