At Least 139 Migrants Dead After Overcrowded Boat Capsizes — 15 Children Among the Victims

A desperate journey across the sea has ended in tragedy, with at least 139 migrants dead after an overcrowded boat capsized off the coast of Djibouti while traveling toward Yemen. At least 15 children were among those who lost their lives, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The boat was carrying approximately 305 people when it overturned near Guhere, north of the port town of Obock, during the night of October 8–9, 2026.

More than 80 people survived the disaster, but dozens of families are still waiting for answers. The latest reports from the United Nations migration agency said at least 84 people remained missing as search and rescue efforts continued.

The victims were among migrants attempting to cross from the Horn of Africa toward Yemen, hoping eventually to reach Gulf countries in search of work and better opportunities. Many people making the dangerous journey face difficult living conditions, conflict and uncertainty in their home countries.

The tragedy highlights the risks of one of the region’s most dangerous migration routes. Overcrowded vessels, hazardous sea conditions, trafficking and other dangers have contributed to repeated migrant deaths along the crossing.

IOM teams are working alongside local authorities to provide emergency assistance and medical care to survivors. Officials are also continuing search operations and arranging burials for those who died.

For the survivors, the experience has brought profound shock and grief. For families waiting at home, the uncertainty surrounding missing relatives makes an already devastating tragedy even more painful.

As rescue efforts continue, the disaster is renewing concerns about the dangers faced by people who undertake perilous sea journeys in search of a safer or more secure future.

Source: Reuters

Additional source: Associated Press