Incident Report: Migrant Boat Sinking Off Tunisia

On Wed, a boat carrying migrants sank off the coast of Tunisia, resulting in the deaths of 40 individuals, including infants, as reported by local judicial authorities. Approximately 30 others were successfully rescued.

Rescue Efforts

Tunisian naval units responded promptly to the incident, rescuing 30 migrants from the vessel, which sank near the Mediterranean port of Mahdia in central Tunisia. The rescued individuals were identified as originating from sub-Saharan Africa, though further details were not provided.

Investigation

The prosecutor’s office has initiated an investigation to ascertain the causes and circumstances surrounding the sinking.

Background

Mahdia is recognized as Tunisia’s second-largest port for the departure of boats transporting individuals from Tunisia, other parts of Africa, and Asia attempting to reach Europe. In response to the ongoing situation, Tunisian security forces have intensified measures to prevent such perilous sea crossings.