139 Migrants, Including 15 Children, Perish in Djibouti Boat Tragedy
A tragic boat capsizing off Djibouti has resulted in the deaths of 139 migrants, with many still unaccounted for.
139 migrants died, including 15 children, after a boat sank off Djibouti.
Over 80 survivors, all Ethiopian nationals, are receiving aid.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants seeking better opportunities.
A devastating maritime tragedy occurred off the coast of Djibouti on the night of October 8-9, resulting in the deaths of at least 139 migrants, including 15 children. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reported that the boat, which was transporting 305 individuals from Djibouti to Yemen, capsized north of the town of Obock. Survivors described how the vessel began to sink immediately after they boarded, raising serious concerns about safety conditions during such perilous journeys.
The IOM's chief of mission in Djibouti, Alexandre Coissac, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, stating, "This is a devastating loss of life." He emphasized the need for emergency assistance for survivors and families affected by the tragedy. In total, 109 bodies have been recovered, including 52 men, 42 women, and 15 children, while 84 individuals remain missing. The agency is currently providing support to 64 survivors at a migrant center in Obock.
The ongoing crisis in Yemen, exacerbated by conflict and economic instability, has prompted many to undertake dangerous migration routes. The IOM noted that poverty, insecurity, and climate change impacts are driving individuals to seek better opportunities, despite the risks involved. Since January, over 178,000 migrants have arrived in Djibouti from Ethiopia, with more than 20,000 crossings detected since September 10 alone.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that many of those on the ill-fated boat had previously been turned back from Yemen, only to attempt the journey again. Coissac revealed that one survivor hailed from the Tigray region of Ethiopia, where ongoing violence has displaced many. The IOM has called for increased support from donors and partners to bolster Djibouti's response efforts, including search and rescue operations.
Looking ahead, Djiboutian authorities are continuing their search and rescue operations for those still unaccounted for. The IOM's reports indicate a troubling trend, with over 900 migrants having died or gone missing along the Yemen route in 2025. As the situation evolves, the international community is urged to strengthen support for humanitarian efforts in the region.
