At least 22 Somali citizens died when two migrant boats capsized off the coast of Madagascar over the weekend, according to Somalia’s Information Minister Daud Aweis. The boats had been en route from Somalia to the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, a journey of several hundred kilometers, when the incidents occurred.
Madagascar’s Port, Maritime, and River Authority (APMF) reported that the boats departed Somalia on November 2, with the first boat discovered drifting near Nosy Iranja by local fishermen on Friday. The fishermen rescued 25 people, including 10 men and 15 women, but seven of the boat's occupants perished. A second boat, carrying 38 people, was found at Madagascar’s Port du Cratère, where 23 people were rescued. The maritime authority did not immediately provide a death toll for the second boat.
Minister Aweis, citing information from Madagascar officials, confirmed that 22 Somali migrants had died in the two incidents. “There were about 70 Somalis on board the two boats, and 22 of them died,” Aweis said during a state television broadcast late on Sunday.
In recent years, thousands of people have attempted the dangerous crossing to Mayotte, which offers better living conditions and access to France's welfare system. While Mayotte is officially a part of France, it is claimed by the Comoros.
Aweis stated that Somalia would investigate the origins of the ill-fated voyage, labeling those who organize such perilous trips as criminals involved in illegal immigration. He also issued a stern warning to others considering similar journeys, urging them to avoid risking their lives. “It is unfortunate that people continue to embark on such dangerous journeys despite the risks,” he added.
Earlier in November, at least 25 people died when traffickers capsized a boat off the Comoros islands.
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