(MENAFN) The death toll of migrants attempting the perilous Central Mediterranean crossing has exceeded 1,000 so far this year, the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported Wednesday, emphasizing that fatalities continue to mount with each tragedy.

The most recent disaster unfolded on Nov. 8, when an inflatable boat capsized off Libya’s coast, leaving over 40 people feared dead. Libyan authorities launched a search and rescue operation near the Al Buri Oil Field after the vessel, which had departed from Zuwara on Nov. 3, was overturned by rough seas.

According to survivors, IOM said the boat carried 49 migrants and refugees—47 men and two women—when high waves caused engine failure about six hours into the journey. Only seven men survived after drifting for six days: four from Sudan, two from Nigeria, and one from Cameroon.

The remaining 42 are missing and presumed dead, including 29 Sudanese, eight Somalis, three Cameroonians, and two Nigerians.

IOM teams provided the survivors with emergency medical care, food, and water upon their rescue.

"This tragic event, coming just weeks after other deadly incidents off Surman and Lampedusa, underscores the persistent dangers faced by migrants and refugees along the Central Mediterranean Route," the agency said in a statement.

The organization renewed its call for enhanced regional cooperation, expanded safe and legal migration pathways, and more effective search and rescue operations to prevent further loss of life.

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