Bangkok, Thailand – Web Desk: More than 500 people are feared dead after two overloaded boats carrying refugees capsized off the coast of Myanmar’s Rakhine State, according to UN agencies . The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UNHCR said the vessels had departed from Rakhine State in late June, carrying mostly Rohingya refugees, including some who had journeyed from camps in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar .
Deadly Journeys Continue
Refugees from conflict-torn Myanmar continue to undertake perilous sea voyages in search of safety and better opportunities, despite the well-documented risks of such crossings . These journeys, often on rickety vessels, have claimed thousands of lives over the years .
Deep Concern, Uncertain Toll
While the number of casualties has not yet been officially confirmed, the agencies expressed deep concern over a potentially catastrophic loss of life . The IOM and UNHCR reiterated their call for safe and legal pathways to protect vulnerable refugees in the region . Authorities in the area have been alerted to the possibility of survivors.
