Seven migrants die as boat sinks off Türkiye's Bodrum coast

Seven irregular migrants drowned when their vessel sank off the coast of Bodrum in southwestern Türkiye, according to preliminary reports from local authorities. The Turkish Coast Guard launched an extensive search and rescue operation after receiving distress calls about a migrant boat in trouble near Ortakent, mobilizing multiple assets to locate survivors in the Aegean Sea.

Rescue Operation Details

Upon receiving emergency notifications, the Coast Guard deployed four patrol vessels, specialized diving teams, a helicopter, and multiple rescue crews to the scene. During the initial response, rescue teams managed to pull two survivors from the water while recovering seven bodies from the sunken vessel. The operation continues as authorities search for any additional passengers who might have been aboard the ill-fated boat.

Migrant Route Context

The Bodrum district has frequently served as a departure point for migrants attempting to reach Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, despite the dangerous maritime conditions. This latest tragedy highlights the ongoing migration pattern through Türkiye's western coastal regions, where similar incidents have occurred previously due to overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels used by human smugglers.

Ongoing Search Efforts

Search operations remain active in the area where the migrant boat sank, with Coast Guard units continuing to scan the waters for any remaining victims. The death toll may potentially rise as search teams expand their operation area, though authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of passengers aboard the vessel when it capsized.