A devastating shipwreck off the coast of Libya has claimed the lives of at least 61 refugees and asylum seekers, including women and children, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The IOM’s Libya office reported the tragic incident on Sunday, revealing that survivors mentioned the boat was carrying approximately 86 people. The Mediterranean continues to be a perilous route for those seeking refuge, highlighting the ongoing challenges and dangers faced by migrants attempting the dangerous sea journey in hopes of reaching safety.
A tragic incident involving a shipwreck off Libya’s northwest coast has resulted in a significant loss of life, with a “large number of migrants” believed to have perished due to high waves engulfing their vessel after departing from Zuwara, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The victims, predominantly from Nigeria, The Gambia, and other African countries, faced the perilous journey in hopes of reaching Europe. The IOM’s Libya office reported that nearly 25 individuals were rescued and transferred to a Libyan detention center, where they received medical support and are reported to be in good condition. A devastating shipwreck
Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesperson for IOM, highlighted the alarming statistic that over 2,250 people have lost their lives on the central Mediterranean migrant route this year alone. This grim figure underscores the urgent need for increased efforts to save lives at sea.
Libya and Tunisia serve as principal departure points for refugees and asylum seekers undertaking risky sea voyages in an attempt to reach Europe, often via Italy. The recent incident adds to the ongoing challenges and dangers faced by migrants in the central Mediterranean region.
According to survivors, the ship was carrying mainly Syrians, Pakistanis and Egyptians. Only 104 survived and 82 bodies were recovered.
More than 153,000 refugees and asylum seekers arrived in Italy this year from Tunisia and Libya, according to the United Nations refugee agency.