NEW YORK, December 14 The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is deeply shocked and saddened by the discovery of the bodies of 27 migrants, including four children, in the Chadian desert one day after the discovery of the bodies of 27 Ethiopian migrants in Chongwe Nguerrere, Zambia.

According to the organization, the migrants left the town of Moussoro in Chad, 17 months ago, on board a small truck, which is believed to have lost its way deep in the desert, and was broken down due to mechanical problems, but they died of thirst.

The organization indicated that it had documented more than 5,600 deaths and disappearances in the Sahara Desert since 2014, and in the current year alone, 149 deaths were recorded.

The organization drew attention to the need for stronger coordination and comprehensive support for search and rescue operations and the provision of humanitarian assistance and protection in remote areas.