Boat With 250 Rohingya and Bangladeshis Capsizes in Andaman Sea

DHAKA, April 15: Nearly 250 people, including Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals, are feared missing after an overcrowded vessel capsized in the Andaman Sea, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The trawler had reportedly departed from Teknaf in southern Bangladesh and was heading towards Malaysia when it encountered rough weather conditions. Strong winds, turbulent waters, and severe overcrowding are believed to have caused the vessel to sink.

Desperation Drives Risky Journeys
The UNHCR stated that the incident highlights the prolonged suffering of Rohingya refugees, many of whom continue to flee persecution and instability in Myanmar. Each year, thousands attempt dangerous sea crossings in search of safety and better opportunities.
Most of those onboard were believed to have come from overcrowded refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, where over a million displaced Rohingya live in extremely challenging conditions. Limited access to education, employment, and humanitarian support often forces refugees to rely on unsafe migration routes facilitated by trafficking networks.

Conflict in Rakhine Fuels Displacement
Ongoing violence in Rakhine State continues to prevent the safe return of Rohingya refugees. The region has witnessed intense clashes between Myanmar’s military and the Arakan Army, further worsening the humanitarian crisis.
According to initial reports, the ill-fated vessel may have been carrying up to 280 passengers when it set sail earlier this month. The exact sequence of events leading to the capsizing remains unclear.

Few Survivors Rescued
The Bangladesh Coast Guard confirmed that only a handful of survivors have been found so far. A rescue operation involving the ship M.T. Meghna Pride managed to save nine individuals drifting at sea near the Andaman Islands.
One survivor, Rafiqul Islam, recounted the horrific ordeal, stating that many passengers were confined in cramped spaces inside the boat, with some dying even before the vessel capsized. He also described suffering burns caused by leaking fuel during the journey.
Survivors reportedly remained stranded in open waters for over a day before being rescued.

Human Trafficking and False Promises
Authorities believe traffickers lured many passengers with promises of employment in Malaysia, a country known to host large numbers of migrant workers in sectors such as construction and agriculture. However, such journeys are frequently organized under dangerous and illegal conditions.
The UNHCR emphasized that this tragedy underscores the urgent need to address the root causes of displacement and create safe, legal pathways for refugees.

Recurring Maritime Disasters
The Andaman Sea, which borders Myanmar, Thailand, and the Malay Peninsula, has become a frequent route for desperate migrants. Maritime disasters involving Rohingya refugees have become increasingly common in recent years.
In 2025 alone, hundreds were reported dead in similar shipwrecks, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian emergency.

Call for Global Action
The UNHCR reiterated that long-term solutions are essential to prevent further loss of life. It stressed the importance of restoring stability in Myanmar and ensuring that refugees can return home safely, voluntarily, and with dignity.
This latest tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of displacement and the urgent need for coordinated international response.