At least 139 migrants, including 15 children, have died in a maritime disaster off the coast of Djibouti, according to the United Nations' migration agency. The incident occurred when a vessel carrying over 300 people capsized near Guhere, north of Obock, on Thursday or early Friday.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that at least 84 people remain missing, while more than 80 survivors have been accounted for. All of the survivors are Ethiopian nationals, the agency said. The confirmed death toll may rise as additional bodies are verified.
The IOM's Director General, Amy Pope, expressed concern over the tragedy, stating that "no one gets into a boat like that unless they believe there is no other safe way." She also emphasized the need for governments and donors to provide safe and legal pathways for migrants, saying that "safe and legal pathways save lives."
The IOM's Chief of Mission in Djibouti, Alexandre Coissac, noted that the boat sank shortly after departing due to overcrowding. Survivors were taken to an IOM rescue center in Obock, where they are receiving medical treatment and psychological support.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants attempting to cross the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula in search of work in Gulf countries. Last year, over 900 migrants died or went missing along this route, according to the IOM.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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