by Hafizur Rahman
July 16, 2026
More than 500 people, most of them Rohingya, are feared to have died after two boats reportedly sank off the coast of Myanmar, according to preliminary information from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).
The two boats are believed to have departed from Rakhine State in late June as passengers attempted to flee by sea in search of safety.
One boat, carrying around 250 people, reportedly lost contact shortly after departure. A second boat, with about 280 people on board, is believed to have sunk off Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady coast on July 8.
The IOM and UNHCR said the incidents and the reported death toll have not yet been officially confirmed. However, both agencies expressed grave concern over the potential loss of hundreds of lives.
Earlier this year, more than 300 Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals were reported dead or missing while attempting dangerous sea crossings across the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
Aid agencies said the latest journeys took place during the monsoon season, when heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas significantly increase the risk of maritime disasters.
Around 1.2 million Rohingya refugees continue to live in overcrowded camps in Bangladesh after fleeing persecution in Myanmar. Many families face worsening humanitarian conditions, while recent reductions in international funding have further cut food assistance in the camps.
Meanwhile, Rohingya who remain in Myanmar continue to face severe movement restrictions, insecurity, and limited access to basic services, leaving many with few safe options for their future.
Driven by these conditions, some Rohingya continue to undertake dangerous sea journeys in the hope of reaching countries such as Malaysia. Over the years, thousands have lost their lives or gone missing during these voyages.
The IOM and UNHCR called on the international community to increase support for Rohingya refugees, strengthen search and rescue efforts, and expand safe protection pathways. They also urged governments across the region to enhance protection for people fleeing persecution and to intensify efforts against human trafficking and migrant smuggling networks.
According to UNHCR, more than 6,500 Rohingya attempted sea journeys in 2025, with nearly 900 reported dead or missing, making it the deadliest year on record for Rohingya attempting maritime crossings.
