At least 22 Somali migrants died when two boats capsized off Madagascar over the weekend, while attempting to reach Mayotte. The boats, which set sail from Somalia on November 2, were discovered by local fishermen and authorities, who rescued 48 people.
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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Iran and the U.S. are set for a third round of indirect talks in Muscat, focusing on sanctions relief and guarantees over Iran’s nuclear program.
Donald Trump said talks between his envoy and Vladimir Putin made major progress toward ending the Ukraine war, urging Kyiv and Moscow to meet face-to-face.
Estonia has passed a €2.8 billion defense funding bill, raising military spending to over 5% of GDP amid growing security concerns over Russia.
George Santos, a former U.S. congressman, has been sentenced to over seven years in prison after being convicted of fraud and identity theft.
The DRC and Rwanda have pledged to draft a peace deal by May 2 and stop backing armed groups, as part of new efforts to end conflict in eastern Congo.
Iran and the U.S. are set for a third round of indirect talks in Muscat, focusing on sanctions relief and guarantees over Iran’s nuclear program.
Donald Trump said talks between his envoy and Vladimir Putin made major progress toward ending the Ukraine war, urging Kyiv and Moscow to meet face-to-face.
Estonia has passed a €2.8 billion defense funding bill, raising military spending to over 5% of GDP amid growing security concerns over Russia.
George Santos, a former U.S. congressman, has been sentenced to over seven years in prison after being convicted of fraud and identity theft.
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