Naypyidaw [Myanmar], July 16 – More than 500 people mostly Rohingya passengers are feared missing after two boats reportedly capsized off the coast of Myanmar while attempting dangerous sea journeys in search of safety, according to UN agencies on Thursday.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in a joint statement said they were deeply concerned over reports that the two vessels may have sunk in recent days, warning of a potentially devastating loss of life along one of the region’s most dangerous maritime routes.
According to preliminary information, both boats departed from Myanmar’s Rakhine State in late June carrying mostly Rohingya passengers including some who had reportedly travelled from refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.
One vessel, believed to have been carrying around 250 people, lost contact shortly after leaving Myanmar. A second boat, reportedly carrying about 280 people is believed to have sunk off the Ayeyarwady coast on July 8.
The incidents and the number of casualties have not yet been officially confirmed.
UNHCR and IOM said the journeys took place outside the regular sailing season, when sea conditions are typically more dangerous. Heavy rains and flooding across the region have further increased the risks faced by people attempting such crossings.
If confirmed, the latest incidents would add to nearly 300 people reported missing or dead in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal so far this year including Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals.
The agencies said the reported boat disasters reflect the worsening conditions facing Rohingya communities as conflict and humanitarian challenges in Myanmar continue while refugees in Bangladesh face limited assistance and opportunities.
Many Rohingya have turned to dangerous maritime routes in search of safety, protection and better living conditions, often relying on smugglers and trafficking networks that exploit their vulnerability.
UNHCR and IOM called for stronger regional and international efforts to prevent further loss of life including improved search and rescue operations, access to asylum and protection and action against smuggling networks.
The agencies also acknowledged Bangladesh’s continued hosting of Rohingya refugees and urged sustained international support for both refugees and the communities sheltering them.
UNHCR and IOM said they are working with authorities across South and Southeast Asia through a “route-based approach” aimed at saving lives, protecting people on the move, reducing risks and helping governments manage mixed migration movements.
