International Organization for Migration: Deaths from a migrant boat sinking from Djibouti to Yemen rise to 139.

Death Toll Rises in Migrant Boat Tragedy

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a United Nations agency, reported a tragic increase in the death toll from a boat capsizing incident involving 305 migrants on an illegal journey from Djibouti to Yemen. The number of fatalities has now reached 139, following the recovery of an additional 30 bodies.

Casualty and Survivor Update

• 139 deaths confirmed after the latest update (previously 109).
• 82 survivors rescued.
• 84 individuals remain missing, with search efforts ongoing.

The IOM stated that the boat sank near Guhairy, north of Obock, during the night of October 8-9. This incident marks one of the deadliest drowning events along the eastern migration route.

UN Call for Safe Passage

Amy Pope, the Director General of the IOM, emphasized the dire need for safe migration routes. She stated, “No one boards a boat like this unless they believe there are no other safe options… The existence of safe and legal pathways saves lives.” Pope urged governments and donors to take immediate action to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

Emergency Assistance for Survivors

The IOM has initiated emergency support for survivors at the Migrant Response Center in Obock, which includes:

• Healthcare services
• Psychological and social support
• Food and shelter
• Protection services

Broader Context of the Migration Crisis

This incident is part of a series of disasters linked to illegal migration across the sea from the Horn of Africa to Yemen. In recent months, there has been a significant increase in the number of casualties and missing persons.

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