At least 109 migrants, including 15 children, have died following a deadly maritime disaster off the coast of Djibouti, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported. The vessel, carrying approximately 350 people bound for Yemen, capsized early Friday near Obock, leaving another 116 individuals unaccounted for as emergency teams continue intensive search and rescue operations.
According to the IOM, more than 80 people survived the sinking, and all are Ethiopian nationals. Emergency response teams and local authorities mobilized quickly to assist the survivors, transferring 64 of them to a dedicated migrant center in Obock for medical care, psychological support, and essential supplies.
Tragic Toll Among Vulnerable Populations
The confirmed death toll underscores the extreme dangers faced by migrants navigating the perilous Horn of Africa migration route toward the Arabian Peninsula. Among the 109 recovered bodies, the IOM detailed a devastating demographic breakdown:
- 52 adult men
- 42 adult women
- 15 children, comprising nine girls and six boys
The high number of missing passengers, estimated at 116 people, has heightened fears that the final casualty count could climb significantly as recovery efforts persist in the turbulent waters near the Bab-el-Mandeb strait.
IOM Response and Ongoing Relief Efforts
Alexandre Coissac, the IOM’s chief of mission in Djibouti, described the tragedy as a major and heartbreaking loss of life. He expressed deep condolences to the families awaiting news of their missing relatives and emphasized the agency’s commitment to supporting the survivors.
Humanitarian organizations and local authorities in Djibouti continue to face compounding challenges along the coastal corridor, where thousands of migrants transit annually in search of economic opportunities in Gulf nations, despite the immense risks of crossing conflict zones and maritime bottlenecks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the migrant shipwreck off Djibouti?
The vessel, carrying approximately 350 people toward Yemen, capsized early Friday morning near the coastal town of Obock in Djibouti.
How many people died in the Djibouti shipwreck?
At least 109 migrants were confirmed dead, including 15 children, while 116 people remained missing as search and rescue operations continued.
What is the nationality of the survivors?
All of the more than 80 survivors rescued from the capsized boat are Ethiopian nationals, with many receiving assistance at a migrant center in Obock.
Who is leading the humanitarian response?
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), led in Djibouti by chief of mission Alexandre Coissac, is working alongside local authorities to support survivors and families.
Why are migrants traveling through this route?
Many migrants use the Horn of Africa route via Djibouti to reach Yemen and onward to Gulf nations in search of better economic opportunities, despite severe dangers.
