At least nine migrants have lost their lives after a boat capsized off the coast of Djibouti, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The incident, which occurred on the night of March 24, 2026 (Megabit 15, 2018 E.C.), has left another 45 people missing, with their fate currently unknown.
The vessel was reportedly carrying 320 passengers when it encountered trouble near the coastal town of Obock, located in the northern part of the country. Search and rescue efforts have been complicated by the treacherous nature of the waters in this region.
This route, often referred to as the 'Eastern Route,' is a primary corridor for migrants traveling from the Horn of Africa toward the Arabian Peninsula. According to reports from Agence France-Presse (AFP), the vast majority of individuals attempting this dangerous crossing are Ethiopian nationals seeking better economic opportunities or fleeing instability.
The Eastern Route remains one of the most perilous migration paths in the world. Data from 2024 indicated that 922 migrants lost their lives along this corridor, marking the highest annual death toll ever recorded on this specific route. The ongoing humanitarian crisis highlights the extreme risks taken by those who rely on smugglers to navigate these waters.
International humanitarian agencies continue to call for increased safety measures and legal pathways to migration to prevent further loss of life. As of now, the IOM and local authorities in Djibouti are monitoring the situation, though the chances of finding the 45 missing individuals alive are diminishing as time passes.
Source: Telegram / tikvahethiopia