The UN refugee agency has made an appeal to Indonesia’s government to help save a ship carrying more than 100 Rohingya migrants, including women and children, off its western coast.
In Myanmar, the predominantly Muslim ethnic Rohingya are subject to severe persecution, and thousands of people risk their lives each year on dangerous water crossings to achieve Malaysia or Indonesia.
The ship, which is thought to be holding more than 100 refugees, was anchored about 6 km off the northwestern province of Aceh, but a relief boat on Monday managed to get it to within 1. 6 km.
“UNHCR immediately appeals to the authorities to ensure this desperate group’s save at sea and safe arrival,” said Faisal Rahman, UNHCR security relate in Indonesia.
In a statement released late on Monday, Rahman said, “UNHCR and companions stand ready to support and deliver much-needed support to these vulnerable people.
Five Rohingya were forced to leave their homes on Thursday to undergo therapy at a nearby Indonesian doctor, he continued.
According to regional authorities in South Aceh, the nearest city, at least one immigrant perished while board the ship.