A large-scale rescue operation is currently underway, led by Malaysian and Thai maritime and police authorities.
The extensive search effort began after a boat carrying undocumented individuals tragically overturned several days ago.
As of Monday, officials have confirmed the recovery of a minimum of 13 bodies as teams continue to scour the waters for survivors.
Details of the Capsizing Incident
The disaster occurred near Thailand’s Tarutao island four days ago. Reports indicate the vessel was transporting approximately 70 migrants when it capsized.
Many of the people on board are believed to be members of the persecuted Rohingya community. They were attempting the risky sea voyage to reach Malaysia.
Police sources suggest this group was part of a much larger cohort potentially 300 individuals. This bigger group had been split across at least two vessels for the journey. Search and rescue operations are intensely focused just north of Langkawi, the well-known Malaysian resort island.
Joint Recovery and Rescue Efforts
Romli Mustafa, director of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency for the northern states, provided updates on the recovery. He confirmed that Malaysian rescuers have located seven bodies, all identified as Rohingya.
“Thai authorities are also conducting their operations, and they have located six bodies,” Romli confirmed to reporters. He expects to find more victims, anticipating that ocean currents will carry additional bodies southward into Malaysian waters.
Reporters in Langkawi observed at least two more bodies being brought ashore. However, the final inclusion of these figures in the official counts was pending confirmation.
Scope of the Search Operation
Mustafa detailed the vast scale of the search. At least 12 vessels are actively involved in the operation. The search area covers roughly 250 square nautical miles an area about the size of Singapore.
“We are dedicated to continuously expanding the search area,” he stressed.
To date, authorities have successfully rescued 13 people alive. These survivors include migrants from both the Rohingya and Bangladeshi communities.
Langkawi police chief Khairul Azhar Nuruddin confirmed that among the seven deceased recovered by Malaysian forces, six were Rohingya women and one was a Rohingya girl. Police estimate the 300-person cohort began their journey from Myanmar about two weeks ago.
The Dangers of Exploitation
The danger of this route is severe. Malaysian police also reported that the second boat which departed Myanmar remains unaccounted for. Malaysia attracts millions of workers, many of whom lack documentation and seek essential jobs.
Unfortunately, these sea crossings are extremely hazardous. They are often managed by human trafficking syndicates who exploit the migrants. Mustafa warned that these syndicates are now “increasingly active,” using high-risk routes and overloaded boats.
Media reports suggest the syndicates charge fees up to $3,500 per person for passage. This disaster sadly recalls previous losses, including several tragic drownings in December 2021 off the Malaysian coast.
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