Tunisian coast guards have recovered the bodies of at least 20 undocumented migrants after their boat capsized off the southeastern coast of the country, near the province of Sfax. The tragedy occurred on Wednesday, as the vessel, which was carrying migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, sank while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea toward Italy.
The boat had departed from the coastal town of Chebba at 11 p.m. local time on Tuesday night, setting out for the Italian island of Lampedusa, one of the key destinations for migrants fleeing poverty and conflict in Africa. According to the Tunisian National Guard, the boat capsized about 13 nautical miles off the coast of Ellouza village, in the province of Sfax.
The National Guard reported that five survivors were rescued from the waters, though many others were unable to survive the harrowing journey. These survivors were immediately given medical attention and transported to nearby ports for further treatment and legal processing, including registration and asylum procedures. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of missing passengers, but a search operation is ongoing.
The sinking is part of a broader and increasingly dire pattern of illegal migration attempts across the Mediterranean. Tunisia, a key transit point for migrants seeking to reach Europe, has witnessed a sharp rise in boat departures despite the high risks involved. Smugglers continue to exploit vulnerable migrants, often overcrowding dilapidated boats ill-equipped to handle the treacherous journey.
In recent years, Tunisia has become one of the primary routes for migrants fleeing the hardships of sub-Saharan Africa, with many seeking to escape war, famine, and political instability. Overcrowding and dangerous conditions on these boats have led to numerous tragedies, raising serious concerns over the need for improved migration management and rescue operations in the region.
The Tunisian authorities have faced growing pressure to address the issue, as both domestic and international organizations call for more comprehensive efforts to curb illegal immigration and prevent further loss of life in the Mediterranean. As the search for the missing continues, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by migrants making perilous journeys across the sea in search of a better life.