Libya’s General Directorate of Security Operations announced on Wednesday the seizure of a boat carrying 33 illegal immigrants of various nationalities off the coast of the Qarabulli area, east of the capital, Tripoli.
The administration explained in an official statement that the seizure occurred moments before the boat attempted to sail towards the European coast, noting that the migrants were preparing to embark on a perilous sea voyage.
According to the details provided, the migrants were distributed as follows: 14 men, 16 women, and 3 children. This reflects the continued phenomenon of family smuggling by sea, despite the grave humanitarian risks threatening their lives.
The statement confirmed that the necessary legal measures had been taken. This was accomplished by opening an official report on the incident and presenting it to the relevant authorities for appropriate action. Investigations are ongoing to pursue those involved in organizing these attempts.
The General Directorate of Security Operations emphasized that these acts constitute inhumane crimes, exposing migrants—including women and children—to grave danger. This is done in exchange for illicit financial gains for the smugglers.
Libyan authorities have recently intensified their security efforts to combat human smuggling networks operating along the country’s coast, which is one of the main launching points for irregular migration across the Mediterranean.
