Bab al-Mandeb — The Yemeni Coast Guard Authority has announced the interception of a new group of undocumented African migrants aboard a smuggling vessel in the strategic waters of Bab al-Mandeb, as part of ongoing efforts to combat irregular migration and human trafficking in the region.

According to an official statement, coast guard patrols operating in the southern Red Sea detected and stopped a suspicious boat attempting to cross into Yemeni territorial waters. Onboard were dozens of African nationals, including women and minors, believed to be en route to inland areas through illegal channels.

The migrants were transferred to a secure facility for medical screening and humanitarian assistance, while authorities launched an investigation into the smuggling network behind the operation. Initial findings suggest the boat departed from the Horn of Africa and was operated by traffickers exploiting vulnerable individuals seeking refuge or economic opportunity.

“This operation reflects our commitment to protecting Yemen’s maritime borders and preventing the exploitation of migrants,” said a spokesperson for the Coast Guard. “We are coordinating with humanitarian agencies to ensure the safety of those rescued and to pursue legal action against the smugglers.”

Bab al-Mandeb, a vital maritime chokepoint linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, has become a hotspot for irregular migration, with thousands of African migrants attempting the perilous journey each year. Many face harsh conditions, abuse, and detention upon arrival.

The Yemeni government has called for increased regional cooperation and international support to address the root causes of migration and dismantle trafficking networks operating across the Red Sea corridor.