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The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said the death toll from a boat capsize off the coast of Djibouti has risen to 139, with 84 people still missing. The vessel was carrying 305 people when it overturned on the night of October 9 while traveling from Djibouti to Yemen.

IOM described the incident as the deadliest such accident recorded off Djibouti. Djiboutian authorities continued search and rescue operations, while local officials provided medical care to survivors and arranged dignified burials for those who died. Concerns were growing that the missing would not be found.

Alexandre Coissac, head of the IOM mission in Djibouti, called the loss of life "devastating" and said teams were working with local authorities to deliver urgent assistance. He said the tragedy underscored the dangers migrants face along the Eastern Route, where people from the Horn of Africa attempt to reach Gulf states via Yemen.

IOM Director General Amy Pope said people only board such vessels when they believe no safe alternative exists, adding that these deaths must not be treated as normal and that safe, legal pathways save lives. She urged governments and donors to act before the next boat sinks.

Key Takeaways

• IOM reports 139 dead and 84 missing after a boat carrying 305 people capsized off Djibouti on October 9.
• The agency called it the deadliest recorded boat accident off Djibouti, with rescue and medical efforts still underway.
• IOM Director General Amy Pope urged governments and donors to act and expand safe, legal migration routes.