A group of Ghanaian migrants in Libya have been allegedly detained for over eight months, under unclear circumstances, according to the Ghana Web newspaper.
They are now reaching out to the Ghanaian government for urgent assistance.
Henry Yeboah, a Ghanaian resident in Libya, expressed deep concern over the undisclosed reasons leading to the arrest of his compatriots.
Desperate for help, they are appealing to the Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ghanaian Ambassador to Libya to intervene swiftly and facilitate their repatriation home.
The group claims to have “endured months of starvation, and inhumane treatment.”
Highlighting their frustrations, Yeboah pointed out that “while other African nations swiftly acted to rescue their citizens, Ghanaians have been left stranded. Despite numerous attempts to contact the Ghanaian embassy, their pleas for assistance have gone unanswered.”
Yeboah cited the recent evacuation of Nigerian nationals from Libya, contrasting it with the perceived lack of concern for the well-being and safety of stranded Ghanaians.
He emphasised that the detainees “have not been informed of the reasons behind their arrest, although documents played a role. Their prolonged detention without formal charges is unjust.”
According to Yeboah, the detainees “find themselves unfairly accused, unaware of the alleged crimes, and lacking legal representation.”
On Wednesday, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported the interception, and subsequent return of 662 migrants to Libya. This operation, conducted between 12-18 November, was disclosed in the IOM’s latest statistical update, emphasizing the ongoing migration crisis in the Mediterranean.
The migrants, embarking on treacherous journeys in an attempt to reach European shores, encountered intensified patrol operations, which subsequently led to their return to Libya. This occurrence underscores the continual strife and despair experienced by migrants, often fleeing conflict, persecution, and economic hardship in their home countries.
Libya, with its extensive coastline along the Mediterranean, has become a key transit point for migrants aiming to reach Europe. The country’s geographical position, and the current state of political instability have made it a hub for migration and human smuggling networks. The Libyan government views the issue as one primarily concerning European nations, given that the migrants’ intended destination is often not Libya itself.