Boat capsizes off Djibouti coast; 139 migrants feared dead

A boat carrying migrants capsized off the coast of Djibouti, claiming an estimated 139 lives in what marks a devastating maritime disaster in the Horn of Africa region. According to reports, the vessel began taking on water and sank during the incident, with survivors describing harrowing scenes as the craft went down.

Authorities launched immediate rescue and recovery operations following the incident. While some passengers were rescued from the water, the scale of casualties underscores the grave dangers faced by migrants attempting sea crossings in one of the world's most treacherous maritime routes.

The capsizing adds to a growing toll of migrant deaths in the Red Sea and adjacent waters, where overcrowded vessels frequently attempt dangerous voyages linking the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula. Poor vessel conditions, inadequate safety measures, and perilous weather patterns have made these crossings increasingly hazardous for desperate migrants seeking better opportunities.

The Djibouti government and international maritime agencies are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The tragedy highlights ongoing challenges in combating human trafficking networks and ensuring the safety of vulnerable migrant populations in transit across the region.