Fourteen Afghan migrants died while attempting a dangerous desert journey toward Iran, officials confirmed on Saturday. Authorities found their bodies in southwestern Afghanistan after weeks of search operations.
The victims reportedly abandoned their broken vehicle and continued on foot. However, extreme desert conditions proved fatal during the journey.
Officials launched the search after the vehicle’s driver reached a village in Nimroz province. The exhausted driver requested emergency assistance after suffering severe dehydration.
Rescue teams initially recovered five bodies near the abandoned vehicle. Meanwhile, authorities searched for the remaining migrants.
Search Ends With Grim Desert Discovery
Officials later found the remaining 14 bodies buried beneath desert sand in Nimroz province. Provincial authorities confirmed the discovery on Friday.
Hospital sources also verified the recovery on Saturday. Furthermore, Nimroz experiences temperatures reaching nearly 45 degrees Celsius during summer.
Abdul Khaleq identified the victims as residents of Qolghi village in Badghis province. He said they had left home 23 days earlier.
Families received the bodies before funeral preparations began. Consequently, mourning spread across the village.
Authorities Renew Fight Against Human Trafficking
Provincial spokesman Abdul Mutawakil Tawhidi confirmed the incident through official statements. Additionally, Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qani reaffirmed efforts against human trafficking.
Authorities pledged stronger action against smugglers exploiting vulnerable Afghan migrants. Iran remains a key destination for Afghans seeking better economic opportunities.
Nevertheless, legal migration routes remain limited. Last December, at least 18 Afghan migrants died while attempting the dangerous crossing into Iran.
