OBOCK: At least 139 migrants in Djibouti migrant boat disaster have died and 84 others remain missing after an overcrowded vessel carrying more than 300 people capsized off the coast of Djibouti, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Search and rescue operations are continuing near the coastal town of Obock as authorities work to locate missing passengers and provide assistance to survivors.
The disaster occurred near Guehere, north of Obock, as the vessel attempted to cross the Bab al-Mandab Strait toward Yemen. According to the information provided by the IOM, the boat was carrying 305 people when it encountered difficulties and capsized.
Search Operations Continue After Djibouti Migrant Boat Disaster
Djibouti’s Coast Guard and local maritime emergency teams have been involved in search and rescue efforts. According to the supplied report, authorities recovered 30 additional bodies over the weekend, raising the confirmed death toll from 109 to 139.
The victims reportedly include at least 15 children, nine girls and six boys, along with 52 men and 42 women. Rescue teams are continuing to search surrounding coastal waters for those still unaccounted for.
The report states that 82 passengers survived after reaching the shore or being rescued by local fishermen and emergency responders. The survivors are Ethiopian nationals who were attempting the dangerous sea crossing in search of employment and economic opportunities.
IOM Warns of Deadly Risks Along Migration Route
The International Organization for Migration has highlighted the dangers faced by migrants travelling along the so-called Eastern Route, which connects countries in the Horn of Africa with Yemen and destinations in the Gulf region.
Migrants, particularly those departing from Ethiopia, often undertake hazardous journeys across the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Many rely on overcrowded, poorly equipped boats operated by smuggling networks, exposing them to the risks of capsizing, adverse weather and other maritime emergencies.
Alexandre Coissac, the IOM’s chief of mission in Djibouti, described the incident as a reminder of the devastating human cost of dangerous sea crossings. According to the supplied report, humanitarian teams are providing medical assistance, psychological support and emergency relief to survivors while coordinating with local authorities.
Dangerous Crossings Continue Despite Regional Challenges
The Eastern Route remains heavily used despite conflict, regional instability and tighter border controls. Thousands of migrants travel through Djibouti each year, hoping to reach Yemen and other destinations in search of work and improved living conditions.
However, the journey frequently exposes them to exploitation by human smugglers and dangerous maritime conditions. Overcrowding, mechanical failures and rough seas further increase the risks associated with these crossings.
Also Read: Attack on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport Kills Pakistani National, Injures 11
According to the supplied report, more than 400 migrants have died along the route since the beginning of the year. Local authorities in Obock have also begun arrangements for the burial of recovered victims in coordination with humanitarian agencies.
Search and rescue teams continue to patrol the surrounding waters as efforts remain focused on locating the missing passengers and supporting those who survived the disaster.
