At least 11 Rohingya refugees have died after their overcrowded boat capsized near the maritime border between Thailand and Malaysia, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The tragic incident highlights the growing desperation among refugees fleeing violence and poverty in Myanmar.
Local rescue teams recovered the bodies from the sea, while dozens of survivors were rescued and taken to nearby coastal shelters. Officials fear the death toll may rise as search operations continue amid rough weather conditions.
According to regional authorities, the boat was carrying more than 70 people attempting to reach Malaysia, a frequent destination for Rohingya seeking work and safety. Many of the passengers included women and children.
Human rights groups have blamed the tragedy on regional governments’ failure to provide safe migration routes, forcing refugees to rely on dangerous sea journeys organized by human traffickers.
Thai and Malaysian officials have launched a joint investigation to determine whether the vessel was operated by smuggling networks known to exploit Rohingya refugees. Survivors have reported paying large sums to traffickers for the perilous voyage.
The United Nations has called for urgent regional cooperation to prevent further loss of life, urging countries to uphold their humanitarian responsibilities toward displaced Rohingya communities.
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