Friday, March, 20 2026 - At least eight bodies have been recovered from a migrant boat discovered off the coast of Comoros, as authorities continue search and rescue operations following the incident.
Officials said the vessel was believed to be carrying
African migrants attempting to reach Mayotte, located between Mozambique and
Madagascar. The boat was found late on Wednesday, March 18, near the coastal
town of Mitsamiouli after residents reported hearing cries for help and alerted
authorities.
Interior Minister Mohamed Ahamada confirmed that eight
bodies had been recovered, adding that further updates would be provided as
investigations continue. However, a local hospital director indicated the death
toll could rise to 17, based on accounts from survivors.
Survivors reportedly told officials they were from the
Democratic Republic of the Congo, though authorities are still working to
verify their identities and nationalities. The Comoros civil security
directorate said search and rescue efforts were ongoing, with reports
suggesting the boat may have been carrying around 50 people.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants
attempting the crossing to Mayotte, which, despite being one of France’s
poorest overseas territories, offers access to the French welfare system and
has become a key destination for migrants in the region.
According to the International Organization for Migration,
the route has claimed thousands of lives over the years. In 2024 alone, at
least 25 people died near Mayotte after traffickers capsized a boat carrying
migrants.
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