At least 68 people have died and 74 remain missing after a migrant boat capsized off Yemen's southern coast, local authorities confirmed Sunday. Search operations continue under challenging weather conditions, with rescue teams recovering bodies scattered along Abyan province's coastline.
A Night of Tragedy
The vessel, carrying 154 Ethiopian migrants, sank late on August 2 amid severe winds and rough seas. Twelve survivors were rescued and rushed to Shaqra General Hospital, where medical staff reported critical conditions due to prolonged exposure and exhaustion.
Migration Routes and Risks
All passengers were Ethiopian nationals attempting to reach Gulf countries via Yemen, a common but perilous route for African migrants seeking economic opportunities. Yemen’s ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis have not deterred these journeys, despite the UN labeling the country’s situation as one of the world’s worst disasters.
Expanding Rescue Efforts
Authorities expanded search operations as bodies washed ashore across multiple coastal areas. Health officials are preparing burials near Zinjibar, Abyan’s capital. The International Organization for Migration and other agencies have deployed teams to assist survivors and recovery efforts.
Calls for Action
Yemeni officials urged international intervention to address irregular migration’s root causes and improve maritime safety. "This tragedy underscores the need for regional cooperation," an Abyan security official told media anonymously.
Maritime authorities warn that rough seas may further complicate rescue missions, leaving families awaiting closure.
