Authorities in the Comoros and Madagascar have launched a regional search and rescue mission after a passenger boat carrying 19 people disappeared while traveling between the two Indian Ocean island nations.

The boat, which left the northwestern port city of Majunga, Madagascar on June 16, was expected to arrive in Mutsamudu, Comoros by June 19. It never made it. On Saturday, Comorian Transport Minister Hassane Alfeine Yasmine confirmed the vessel’s disappearance, prompting maritime alerts across the region.

According to official passenger data, the missing include 14 Malagasy nationals, four Comorians, and one Afghan citizen. All passengers are reported to be men except for one young woman, believed to be the daughter of the boat’s owner.

The Mozambique Channel, where the boat was last believed to be traveling, is notorious for its volatile sea conditions and poor maritime safety infrastructure. Authorities believe rough weather or mechanical failure could have caused the disappearance.

Comoros has requested assistance from Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles, activating a broader maritime alert across the western Indian Ocean. Search planes and patrol boats have been deployed, while local fishermen and commercial vessels are being asked to report any debris or signs of the vessel.

“We are doing all we can to locate the boat and save lives,” Minister Yasmine said in a public appeal. “We urge the maritime community to stay alert and share any information immediately.”

Family members of the missing have gathered in ports across both countries, awaiting news. Authorities say aerial surveillance is now being used in addition to sea patrols, though weather conditions may hamper the search.

By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com