A boat carrying over 150 migrants has tragically capsized off Yemen’s southern coast, resulting in the loss of more than 50 lives. Local authorities reported that the vessel sank in the Gulf of Aden due to adverse weather conditions, leaving a mere 10 individuals rescued and many others unaccounted for. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) indicated most victims were likely Ethiopian nationals, underscoring the persistent dangers faced by migrants on this perilous route.
Tragedy Strikes as Migrant Boat Capsizes off Yemen's Coast
Tragedy Strikes as Migrant Boat Capsizes off Yemen's Coast
Over 50 lives lost in a boat accident amidst a growing humanitarian crisis as migratory paths become increasingly perilous.
On Sunday, the distressing scene unfolded in Abyan province when the overcrowded boat succumbed to the rough seas. Abdusattor Esoev, IOM’s chief in Yemen, confirmed that 54 bodies were recovered along the Khanfar district’s shores, with several others taken to a local hospital. A statement from the Abyan security directorate highlighted ongoing search and recovery efforts, as many victims were discovered scattered across a broad stretch of coastline.
In response to this calamity, an IOM spokesperson expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of life, stressing the critical need for stronger protections for those traversing dangerous migration routes often manipulated by unscrupulous traffickers. They emphasized the urgency of implementing enhanced safety measures, indicating a dire situation for migrants exploiting the route from the Horn of Africa to Gulf states, which remains one of the most treacherous migration paths.
This recent tragedy is not an isolated incident; in March, two migrant boats encountered similar fates off Yemen’s Dhubab district amidst rough waters, with nearly all passengers missing or presumed dead. Reports suggest that people-smugglers have become increasingly reckless, intentionally steering vessels into hazardous waters to evade law enforcement. Yet, despite these dangers, the flow of migrants persists. The IOM has recorded over 60,000 arrivals in Yemen this year alone, with more than 3,400 deaths in the past decade along this treacherous route, a stark reminder of the growing humanitarian challenges confronting those in search of a better life.
The situation calls for immediate international attention and action to protect vulnerable migrants risking everything in hopes of a brighter future.
In response to this calamity, an IOM spokesperson expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of life, stressing the critical need for stronger protections for those traversing dangerous migration routes often manipulated by unscrupulous traffickers. They emphasized the urgency of implementing enhanced safety measures, indicating a dire situation for migrants exploiting the route from the Horn of Africa to Gulf states, which remains one of the most treacherous migration paths.
This recent tragedy is not an isolated incident; in March, two migrant boats encountered similar fates off Yemen’s Dhubab district amidst rough waters, with nearly all passengers missing or presumed dead. Reports suggest that people-smugglers have become increasingly reckless, intentionally steering vessels into hazardous waters to evade law enforcement. Yet, despite these dangers, the flow of migrants persists. The IOM has recorded over 60,000 arrivals in Yemen this year alone, with more than 3,400 deaths in the past decade along this treacherous route, a stark reminder of the growing humanitarian challenges confronting those in search of a better life.
The situation calls for immediate international attention and action to protect vulnerable migrants risking everything in hopes of a brighter future.
