Migrant Boat Capsizes Near Malta, Multiple Fatalities Reported

2026-06-08T08:01:16.021+00:00 · Updated 2026-06-08T14:01:10.573+00:00

A tragic incident occurred east of Malta when a boat carrying migrants capsized, leading to multiple fatalities and a significant rescue operation.

Newsbook reported that eleven bodies were recovered from the sea, and 53 individuals were rescued after the vessel encountered difficulties.

Lovin Malta, however, stated that at least ten people died, and 48 individuals were saved. This outlet also specified the incident occurred approximately 45 nautical miles east-southeast of Malta.

The boat is believed to have departed from Libya, a common starting point for migrant journeys across the Mediterranean.

Rescue efforts involved the Italian Coast Guard, which was instrumental in assisting the distressed vessel.

A fishing vessel also played a role in the rescue operation, bringing survivors to safety.

The Italian coastguard joined the search and rescue operation off Malta's coast yesterday, following a request from Maltese authorities. This comes after a migrant boat capsized, leading to a tragic loss of life.

Authorities have now confirmed that 11 individuals died in the incident. A total of 53 migrants were successfully rescued from the distressed vessel. Times of Malta reported that 10 bodies were recovered, while NET News and MaltaToday both indicated 11 fatalities.

Earlier, Fil-Qosor reported on a migrant boat capsizing near Malta. The Armed Forces of Malta have now confirmed that 11 people died in the shipwreck that occurred off the Maltese coast.

The incident took place approximately 50 nautical miles east of Malta, in waters outside the country's territorial jurisdiction. The boat, which was carrying irregular migrants, capsized earlier this week, leading to the tragic loss of life.