The overcrowded vessel was carrying 305 people from Djibouti to Yemen when it capsized, leaving dozens still missing.

Djibouti — At least 139 migrants, including 15 children, have died after an overcrowded boat carrying 305 people capsized off the coast of Djibouti while heading towards Yemen, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The vessel sank near Guhere, north of the coastal town of Obock, during the night of October 8–9, in one of the deadliest migrant boat disasters recorded along the Eastern Route linking the Horn of Africa to Yemen.

The IOM said 82 people survived and received assistance in Obock, while 84 others remained missing as search and recovery operations continued.

Ethiopian migrants among victims of Djibouti shipwreck

Most of those aboard the vessel were Ethiopian nationals, according to the UN migration agency.

The boat was travelling across the Gulf of Aden towards Yemen, a major transit point for migrants seeking employment and economic opportunities in Gulf countries.

The confirmed death toll includes 15 children, while authorities and humanitarian teams continue efforts to locate those still missing.

With 84 people unaccounted for, the number of fatalities could rise as recovery operations continue.

Eastern Route remains dangerous for African migrants

The Eastern Route is one of the main migration corridors connecting the Horn of Africa with Yemen and other destinations in the Arabian Peninsula.

Thousands of migrants, particularly from Ethiopia, travel along the route each year in search of work and better living conditions.

Many undertake dangerous sea crossings in overcrowded vessels, exposing them to the risk of drowning, exploitation and abuse by smugglers.

According to the IOM, economic hardship, conflict and limited employment opportunities continue to drive migration along the corridor.

Those who survive the maritime crossing can face further dangers in Yemen, where conflict and insecurity have created additional risks for migrants.

Djibouti boat tragedy follows earlier Obock shipwreck

The latest disaster comes months after another migrant boat sank off the coast of Obock in March, leaving nine people confirmed dead and 45 missing.

Both incidents highlight the dangers facing migrants attempting to cross from Djibouti to Yemen aboard overcrowded boats.

Search and recovery efforts following the October 8–9 sinking remain ongoing, with dozens of passengers still unaccounted for.