Tunisians trying to flee to Europe gather aboard a ship owned by the Tunisian coast guards, after being intercepted by them at sea on August 10, 2023. Mediterranean Sea crossing attempts from Tunisia have multiplied following a incendiary speech by the Tunisian president who had alleged that "hordes" of irregular migrants were causing crime and posing a demographic threat to the mainly Arab country. (Photo by FETHI BELAID / AFP)

Tunisia: migrants boat sinks claim nine lives, six missing

Last updated Dec 13, 2024

Tunisia’s coastguard has recovered the bodies of nine migrants and is searching for six others still missing after their boat sank near the coastal city of Chebba, judicial official Farid Ben Jha reported on Thursday. The vessel, which was carrying at least 42 people from sub-Saharan Africa, broke down and took on water during bad weather conditions.

Survivors told authorities that 27 individuals were rescued from the sinking boat.

Tunisia has become the primary departure point for migrants heading to Europe, overtaking Libya, as the country faces a severe migration crisis.

Reuters/Patience Ameh