Tunisian authorities launched a rescue operation on Friday after a migrant boat capsized off the southeastern coast of Tunisia. The National Guard reported that 34 migrants were rescued, while tragically, two bodies were recovered from the waters.
According to the National Guard’s statement, survivors revealed that there were originally 70 individuals on board before the vessel overturned. Currently, 34 people are still missing, prompting ongoing search efforts by the authorities.
“The floating units of the National Guard in Zarzis (southeastern Tunisia) were able to intercept a crossing attempt of the maritime border, rescuing 34 passengers of different nationalities and recovering two bodies,” the statement disclosed.
Survivors recounted setting sail from “a neighboring country” before their perilous journey ended in disaster.
Tunisia, alongside Libya, remains a significant departure point for irregular migrants seeking passage to Europe, despite the inherent dangers involved.
The International Organization for Migration highlighted a sobering statistic, noting a 75 percent increase in fatalities or disappearances last year, with 2,498 individuals losing their lives or going missing while attempting to cross the central Mediterranean.
