Over 60 dead, several others missing after cargo ship sinks off Madagascar

Photo: Madagascar Ministry of National Defence

A total of 64 people were killed while 24 others have gone missing after a cargo vessel sank in rough seas off northeastern Madagascar on Monday, December 20.

The vessel, which had 138 people on board at the time of the incident, reportedly encountered engine trouble and suffered water ingress while underway.

The vessel later ended up on a reef and eventually sank in the late evening (local time) of Monday.

Rescuers successfully pulled 50 survivors out of the water. Tragically, 64 deceased individuals were also found in and around the sunken vessel.

Local maritime officials said the search for the 24 missing people is still ongoing.

Authorities said the vessel was not authorised to carry any passengers.


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