At least 18 African migrants have died after a tragic boat journey near the Comoros while attempting to reach the French island of Mayotte, authorities confirmed.
The victims were part of a group of around 50 migrants, many from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who were reportedly abandoned at sea by smugglers before reaching shore. While about 30 people survived, several drowned during the final stretch, with many unable to swim.
Local residents, fishermen, and emergency responders recovered bodies along the coast near Mitsamiouli. Among the dead were children, highlighting the devastating human cost of the dangerous migration route.
Mayotte, despite being France’s poorest overseas department, remains a key destination due to its relatively better infrastructure and access to social services. Thousands of migrants attempt the risky crossing each year, often relying on smugglers who expose them to life-threatening conditions.
The journey is long and perilous, stretching hundreds of kilometres across open sea from East Africa. Survivors described days without food or water and said the boat captain became lost before abandoning them near the shore.
According to the International Organization for Migration, many migrants have died along this route over the years, though incidents of this scale near Comoros are rare. Authorities continue search and recovery efforts as the tragedy underscores the ongoing dangers of irregular migration.
