18 Migrants Killed in Boat Tragedy off Comoros Coast

Kigali, March 22, 2026 - Mitsamiouli, Comoros, 20 March 2026 - At least 18 migrants have died after a boat capsized off the coast of the Comoros while attempting to reach the French-administered island of Mayotte.

According to Comoros Security Minister Mohamed Ahmed Assoumani, the accident occurred during the night of 18-19 March in the Mitsamiouli area. The victims included 16 nationals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and two from Burundi.

The vessel was reportedly carrying 51 people, who had departed from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on a week-long journey toward Mayotte.

Following the accident, local residents and fishermen launched rescue efforts, managing to save 33 survivors, who were transported to a nearby hospital.

Authorities praised the swift response of the community. “Their lives were saved thanks to collective action and rapid intervention,” Assoumani said.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Comoros, James Bot, attributed such incidents to human trafficking networks that exploit migrants by promising safe passage but abandoning them at sea.

He called for stronger regional cooperation, particularly between Comoros and Tanzania, to address the root causes of irregular migration and prevent further tragedies.

The accident underscores the ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting dangerous sea crossings in search of better opportunities.