At least 250 people are missing after a boat carrying passengers sank while traveling from Bangladesh to Malaysia, according to reports from United Nations agencies.
According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Organization for Migration, the vessel departed from the Teknaf area in Cox’s Bazar, carrying a large number of passengers, including Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals.
The cause of the incident is believed to be overcrowding, combined with strong winds and rough seas, which led to a loss of control and the vessel sinking.
The Bangladesh Coast Guard stated that it rescued nine people on April 9, consisting of three Rohingya and six Bangladeshi citizens. These individuals were found drifting at sea and were picked up by the vessel M.T. Meghna Pride.
The victims were subsequently handed over to authorities in Teknaf. Currently, there is no clear information regarding further search operations or the exact timing of the shipwreck.
The incident occurred outside Bangladesh's territorial waters, so it was not part of the country's official rescue campaign.
UN agencies noted that this situation reflects the long-standing crisis facing the Rohingya, as many continue to flee refugee camps in search of better living opportunities.
The lack of humanitarian support, limited access to education and employment, and the prolonged conflict in Myanmar's Rakhine State have driven many to undertake dangerous sea journeys.
The international community is currently being called upon to increase support to protect vulnerable refugees.
