Dozens Feared Dead After Ferry Sinks Off Myanmar Coast

A file photo shows a small ferry boat in Yangon city, Myanmar, 22 October 2013. At least 21 people were confirmed dead and two dozen others missing after a ferry sank off the north-western coast of Myanmar. EPA/LYNN BO BO

YANGON (DPA) — At least 21 people were confirmed dead and two dozen others missing after a ferry sank off the north-western coast of Myanmar, officials said Saturday.

The government-owned ferry with 214 passengers aboard sunk late Friday night in high seas off the coastal state of Rakhine, officials said.

"A total of 167 passengers were rescued and 21 bodies were recovered by the navy ship, but 26 people were still missing," state government spokesman Win Myaing said.

The ferry was swamped by waves shortly after leaving Taunggok en route to Sittwe, he said.

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"We heard there was a heavy rain and wind after it had left Taunggok," he said.

The missing people were believed to be dead.

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