At least eight bodies have been recovered from a migrant boat discovered off the coast of Comoros, as authorities continue search and rescue operations following the incident.
Officials said the vessel was believed to be carrying African migrants attempting to reach Mayotte, located between Mozambique and Madagascar. The boat was found late on Wednesday, March 18, near the coastal town of Mitsamiouli after residents reported hearing cries for help and alerted authorities.
Interior Minister Mohamed Ahamada confirmed that eight bodies had been recovered, adding that further updates would be provided as investigations continue. However, a local hospital director indicated the death toll could rise to 17, based on accounts from survivors.
Survivors reportedly told officials they were from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, though authorities are still working to verify their identities and nationalities. The Comoros civil security directorate said search and rescue efforts were ongoing, with reports suggesting the boat may have been carrying around 50 people.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants attempting the crossing to Mayotte, which, despite being one of France’s poorest overseas territories, offers access to the French welfare system and has become a key destination for migrants in the region.
According to the International Organization for Migration, the route has claimed thousands of lives over the years. In 2024 alone, at least 25 people died near Mayotte after traffickers capsized a boat carrying migrants.