Libya intercepts over 100 migrants off the coast

Libyan authorities intercepted 113 migrants and recovered three bodies in operations off the country’s coast over three days, according to AFP, citing Libyan officials.

According to the Interior Ministry, three African migrants were found dead on a beach in Misrata, east of Tripoli. Separately, 54 migrants were stopped off Garabulli and returned to Tripoli. On Sunday, 20 more were rescued near Zawiya as part of intensified summer patrols. Another 39 were intercepted on Saturday east of the capital.

Libya, mired in chaos since the 2011 fall of Muammar Qaddafi, remains a key transit point for migrants aiming to reach Europe by sea. The country lies about 300 km from Italy’s coast.

Migrants intercepted by Libyan forces—sometimes even in international waters—are routinely returned to Libya and held in detention centers. These facilities, notorious for their poor conditions, have been repeatedly condemned by the United Nations and human rights groups.