Tragic Boat Capsize Claims Over 50 Migrants Near Yemen's Coast

In a heartbreaking event off Yemen's southern province of Abyan, more than 50 migrants lost their lives when their boat capsized amid treacherous weather conditions. The vessel, carrying approximately 150 individuals, met tragedy on Sunday, leaving only 10 survivors and many others unaccounted for. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that most victims were likely Ethiopian nationals, describing the event as a devastating reminder of the perilous journeys undertaken by those seeking better lives. Efforts are underway for a thorough search and rescue operation while calls for improved protections for migrants intensify amidst such losses.

The horrific scene unfolded as local authorities reported the discovery of 54 bodies along the shore in Khanfar, with an additional 14 migrants sent to a hospital morgue in Zinjibar. Following this tragedy, Abdusattor Esoev, head of the IOM in Yemen, expressed deep sorrow while emphasizing the critical need for heightened safety measures for migrants. This incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by those traveling from the Horn of Africa, often at the hands of unscrupulous smugglers.

Consequently, the IOM has highlighted the perilous nature of this migration route, previously noting that numerous such tragedies have occurred, with major incidents reported in recent months. Last March, two separate boats carrying countless migrants also capsized off Yemen due to rough seas, leaving many missing and presumed dead. Despite facing increased dangers, migrants continue to brave the journey, with over 60,000 arriving in Yemen in just this year alone. The IOM's Missing Migrants Project has documented over 3,400 deaths linked to this hazardous route in the last decade, solidifying the urgent need for increased safeguarding measures for these vulnerable populations.