More than 500 Rohingya feared lost at sea after boats vanish
Two boats carrying an estimated 530 Rohingya people have not been heard from since leaving Myanmar on June 29. Families and rights groups are increasingly worried as the fate of the vessels remains unknown.
Two boats that left Myanmar's Rakhine State on June 29, carrying an estimated 530 Rohingya refugees including women and children, have not been heard from since. The vessels were reportedly following one of the long, hazardous sea routes commonly used to reach Malaysia.
Human rights groups say sea journeys in the region have for years involved overcrowded, poorly maintained boats with inadequate food and water supplies, and have often ended in loss of life. Most families say they have had no word from their relatives since June 29.
Regional authorities say search efforts have been limited and the boats' last known route remains unclear. International organizations warn that deaths of Rohingya refugees at sea have risen again this year.
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