Over 60 Migrants Killed in Yemen Boat Tragedy

On Sunday, a boat packed with around 150 migrants capsized off the shores of Yemen’s Abyan province in the Arabian Sea, resulting in the deaths of no fewer than 68 individuals in a harrowing maritime disaster.

Arabian Sea-(Special Correspondent/Webdeesk)-At least 68 people have died after a boat carrying around 150 migrants overturned in the Arabian Sea near Yemen’s Abyan province on Sunday. Only 12 people have been rescued so far, and many others are still missing, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Most of the people on board were Ethiopian migrants trying to reach Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia in search of work and better living conditions. The IOM called the incident “heart-breaking” and said it shows how dangerous the journey is for many migrants.

A Risky Route Through Yemen

The southern coast of Yemen is often used by migrants from East Africa, especially from Ethiopia and Somalia, as a route to reach the Gulf region. Even though Yemen is still affected by war, thousands continue to travel through the country, hoping for a better future.

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In 2024 alone, more than 60,000 migrants have arrived in Yemen, according to the IOM. But the journey is full of risks.

Smugglers often use unsafe boats and travel through dangerous waters to avoid being caught. This route is one of the busiest and most dangerous for migrants in the world.

Rescue Operations Continue

Local officials have started a large search and rescue operation. So far, 54 bodies have been found in Khanfar district, and 14 more were taken to a morgue in Zinjibar, the capital of Abyan province. Authorities say they are finding bodies along a wide stretch of coastline.

The IOM is helping with rescue and recovery efforts. Abdusattor Esoev, the head of IOM Yemen, called for better legal protection and safer ways for people to migrate.

Smugglers Put Lives at Risk

The IOM says this tragedy highlights how dangerous human smugglers can be. Many of them knowingly send overcrowded boats into unsafe waters to avoid detection by authorities.

“This heartbreaking incident shows why we need stronger protections for migrants,” an IOM spokesperson said. “Smugglers continue to take advantage of people who are desperate for a better life.”

IOM officials are asking governments to create more legal and safe migration options. Mr. Esoev emphasized that no one should have to risk their life just to seek safety or opportunity.

From 2014 to 2024, the IOM’s Missing Migrants Project has recorded over 3,400 deaths and disappearances along this migration route — more than 1,400 of those caused by drowning.