Somali Citizens Rescued Off Madagascar Coast to Be Returned to the Country

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The federal government of Somalia Sunday announced plans to return Somali citizens rescued off the coast of Madagascar.

Information Minister of Information Daud Aweis Jama in a statement announced that the government is coordinating with officials in Madagascar to facilitate the smooth return of the 48 rescued individuals.

He also extended his condolences to the families of the 22 deceased.

Seven people were found dead when a drifting boat carrying Somali nationals was discovered at sea and brought to the island of Nosy Be off the northwestern coast of Madagascar, by Malagasy fishermen Friday.

 According to a statement issued the same day by Madagascar’s Port, Maritime and River Agency, two boats, carrying 32 and 38 passengers, respectively, left Somalia on Nov. 2 on their way to the island of Mayotte, a French overseas department located to the northwest of Madagascar.

They “suffered engine failure and were lost at sea” before being found by Malagasy fishermen Friday.

A total of 48 people on board survived the tragedy and are currently under supervision and medical care.

Meanwhile, Somalias Foreign Affairs minister Ambassador Ahmed Mo’allim Fiqi has urged Somali youth to recognize the severe risks associated with illegal migration.

He emphasized the dangers of sea crossings and the challenges linked to unsafe and unlawful travel, encouraging the youth to prioritize their safety and seek opportunities within the country.