The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that at least 139 migrants, including 15 children, died when a vessel carrying 305 people capsized near the coast of Djibouti. The agency stated that 84 individuals remain missing and more than 80 survived the incident, which occurred Thursday night or early Friday near Guhere, north of Obock.
The boat was traveling from Djibouti toward Yemen when it sank. IOM Director General Amy Pope stated that all survivors were Ethiopian nationals. She emphasized that migrants do not board such vessels unless they believe no other safe route exists. Pope called for governments and donors to provide safe and legal pathways to prevent further loss of life, noting that these deaths cannot be treated as normal.
Alexandre Coissac, the IOM Chief of Mission in Djibouti, told The Associated Press that the confirmed death toll includes only victims buried by Djiboutian authorities. He indicated the number could rise as additional bodies are verified. Some victims were buried by fellow migrants but are not yet included in the official count pending verification by authorities. Coissac described the scene as terrible, noting that some victims were buried in a common grave without names, similar to a war situation. He stated that while all victims have families, their identities may never be confirmed.
Coissac attributed the sinking to overcrowding, stating the boat went down shortly after departing on the evening of Oct. 8. Survivors were transported to an IOM rescue center in Obock, where they received medical treatment for swallowing seawater and psychological support. Coissac said the survivors are currently in a state of shock.
The route from the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula is frequently used by migrants seeking work in Gulf countries but remains dangerous. The IOM reported that more than 900 migrants died or went missing along this route last year.