Two Tunisian migrants have tragically died, while five others are missing, following a boat capsizing off the coast of Gabes, southeast of the country, as reported by the National Guard.
According to the National Guard statement, “At 2 a.m. on August 12, 2023, a boat sunk approximately 120 meters from the shores of Gabes, carrying 20 Tunisian crossers. Thirteen individuals were rescued, and two bodies were retrieved, including an infant and a 20-year-old young man.” They further mentioned, “Search operations for the remaining missing persons are underway, in coordination with the Civil Protection department.” The Public Prosecutor’s Office has authorized the Maritime Guidance Unit in Gabes to launch an investigation into the incident.
United Nations data indicates that since January, over 1,800 individuals have lost their lives due to boat sinkings in the central Mediterranean Sea, which is regarded as the world’s deadliest migration route. This number is nearly double that of last year’s toll. Just last week, a boat departing from Sfax resulted in no less than 11 deaths and 44 missing persons.
This year, Sfax has emerged as the most prominent departure point for attempts to cross the Mediterranean from Tunisian coasts. It’s notably the closest point, less than 130 kilometers from the Italian island of Lampedusa.
