Ten Dead After Migrant Boat Capsizes Near Malta, Rescue Operations Ongoing
At least 10 people have died after a migrant boat capsized near Malta, according to the Italian coast guard. Authorities say the vessel was carrying around 60 people after departing from the Libyan coast before it overturned in the Mediterranean Sea.
In a statement, the coast guard confirmed that Malta requested urgent assistance following reports of a vessel carrying migrants in distress, with multiple people entering the water after the capsizing. Rescue teams were quickly deployed to the area.
An Italian patrol boat recovered ten bodies from the sea, while search and rescue operations continued into Sunday afternoon in an effort to locate any remaining missing passengers. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as operations continue.
A fishing vessel operating nearby managed to rescue approximately 48 survivors, who were brought to safety and are now receiving assistance. Authorities have not yet released details on the condition of the survivors or their nationalities.
The incident highlights the ongoing dangers of the Central Mediterranean migration route, which remains one of the deadliest crossings in the world. According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), at least 827 people have died this year alone while attempting the journey from North Africa to Europe.
Last year, more than 1,330 migrants lost their lives on the same route, underscoring the persistent risks faced by those fleeing conflict, poverty, and instability in search of safety in Europe.
