A devastating shipwreck off the southern Italian island of Lampedusa has resulted in the deaths of at least 22 migrants, with many more still missing. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that 60 survivors, including 56 men and four women, were rescued and brought ashore to Lampedusa. The survivors were in “decent” health, according to Cristina Palma of the Italian Red Cross, although four were hospitalized for medical checks.
The tragedy occurred when two boats carrying migrants from Libya capsized in rough waters. Initial accounts suggest that one boat began taking on water, prompting passengers to transfer to the other vessel, which later capsized. The Italian financial police spotted the capsized boat with bodies in the water about 23km off Lampedusa, triggering a rescue operation.
UNHCR spokesperson Filippo Ungaro expressed “deep anguish” over the shipwreck, highlighting the dangers faced by migrants crossing the Mediterranean. “It looks to be 20 bodies found and as many missing,” he wrote on social media. The agency estimates that 675 people have died in the central Mediterranean this year while attempting to reach Europe.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has vowed to block refugee and migrant sea journeys from Africa, passing measures against human smugglers and urging allies to do more to curb migration attempts. The central Mediterranean route, one of the world’s deadliest, has claimed numerous lives in recent years, with many more at risk due to overcrowded and unseaworthy boats.
Key Facts:
- Number of Deaths: At least 22 migrants died in the shipwreck, with up to 17 people still missing.
- Survivors: 60 survivors were rescued, including 56 men and four women.
- Cause of the Tragedy: The boats capsized in rough waters after one began taking on water.
- Response: Italian authorities and rescue services responded promptly, with the Italian Red Cross providing assistance to survivors.
- Mediterranean Migration: 675 people have died in the central Mediterranean this year, highlighting the dangers of this route.
