Rome (Web Desk):The United Nations (UN) has reported that a boat carrying migrants near the Italian island of Lampedusa has capsized. Around 100 people were on board, and at least 20 have lost their lives in the tragic incident.
According to international media reports, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and local sources have confirmed that 20 individuals died when the vessel overturned, while 70 to 80 people were safely rescued.
UNHCR spokesperson Filippo Ungaro expressed concern, stating that some migrants might still be missing at sea, and rescue operations are ongoing to locate them.
He added that the survivors have been taken to a center on Lampedusa for assistance.
The UNHCR further noted that more than 675 migrants have died so far this year attempting to cross the dangerous central Mediterranean route.