Tunisian Authorities Recover 16 Bodies After Boat Capsizes Near Djerba

A boat carrying undocumented immigrants sank off the coast of Djerba Island in southeastern Tunisia on Monday, resulting in 16 confirmed deaths, according to Tunisian authorities. The victims, whose bodies were recovered by the Tunisian coast guard, navy, and civil protection teams between Monday and Tuesday, included primarily Tunisian nationals, with three infants among them. Two foreign nationals were also on board, as confirmed by Tunisian National Guard spokesperson Houcemeddine Jbabli.

The vessel embarked early Monday morning around 5:15 a.m. local time. Tunisia, located along the central Mediterranean, has become a frequent departure point for migrants attempting dangerous sea crossings to Europe in search of better opportunities. While the exact circumstances leading to the boat’s sinking remain unclear, Tunisia’s strategic position makes it a key hub for migrants aiming to reach European shores, despite the high risks involved in such journeys.

Efforts to locate any additional survivors or bodies are ongoing.