A tragic incident in the Andaman Sea has resulted in the confirmed deaths of seven individuals, with over 30 others reported missing after a boat capsized while carrying villagers fleeing violence in Myanmar. The overcrowded vessel, estimated to have 70-75 passengers on board, was en route from Kyauk Kar Island to the coastal town of Myeik when it sank shortly after departing around 9:30 p.m. on Sunday. Strong currents and overcapacity, as the boat typically accommodates only 30-40 passengers, are believed to have contributed to the disaster.

The boat capsized near the mouth of an estuary, approximately 15 minutes into its journey. Local rescue efforts have managed to save around 30 individuals, but the situation remains dire for the missing. The passengers were primarily fleeing ongoing conflicts between the Myanmar army and pro-democracy guerrillas in the Tanintharyi region, which has seen intensified fighting in recent weeks.

Since the military coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s government in February 2021, Myanmar has experienced significant unrest and violence. The Tanintharyi region, a known stronghold for resistance forces, has reported numerous casualties, arrests, and displacements due to recent hostilities. The sea route taken by the boat has become vital for local transportation as land routes have been compromised by the ongoing conflict, which has forced many villagers to seek safer areas.