At least 10 people died when a boat carrying approximately 60 migrants capsized in waters near Malta, according to the Italian coastguard.

The Italian coastguard reported recovering at least 10 bodies from the Mediterranean Sea following the incident. The vessel was carrying about 60 people when it overturned.

The incident represents the latest in a series of dangerous crossings attempted by migrants seeking to reach European shores via the Mediterranean route. The waters between North Africa and Malta have been the site of numerous similar incidents in recent years.

Search and rescue operations were conducted in the area, though details about survivors or the exact circumstances of the capsizing were not immediately available. The nationalities of those aboard the vessel have not been confirmed.

Malta and Italy regularly coordinate rescue efforts in the central Mediterranean, where migrant boats frequently encounter rough seas and mechanical problems during the dangerous journey from North African ports.