October 21, 2024
A boat carrying approximately 80 people capsized near Kyaukka Village, Pulaw Township, in the Tanintharyi Region on the night of October 20, around 9 p.m., according to local sources. More than 20 bodies have been recovered so far, while nearly 60 people remain missing.
The passengers onboard were reportedly mostly internally displaced persons (IDPs), fleeing conflict zones. According to locals, the boat was heading from Kyaukka Village to Myeik when it encountered difficulties and capsized in rough seas. The exact number of passengers remains unclear, but it is estimated that around 80 people were on board, including children and adults.
“Around 20 bodies have been found so far. Some survivors have been rescued, but many are still missing. We’re working with families to confirm who was on the boat to get a clearer picture of the missing and deceased,” said a rescue worker involved in the operations.
Local villagers and social welfare groups have joined forces to conduct search and rescue operations, but the situation remains dire, with many still unaccounted for.
