On Saturday, the Libyan Parliament-designated government, led by Osama Hammad, announced that it has deported irregular migrants from Brak al-Shati to Niger via land routes.
In a statement, Major General Abdulrahman Al-Ansari, head of the Anti-Illegal Immigration Agency in the southern region revealed that these migrants were apprehended in human trafficking dens, adding that the deportations would continue under Libyan law, as stated in a brief government statement.
In recent operations, Nigerian migrants were also deported from Benghazi, and Egyptian migrants were deported through the Emsaed border crossing. In April, 26 Egyptian migrants were deported through the Emsaed land crossing to Egypt. In January, the Benghazi branch of the agency announced the detention of 1,507 migrants.
Libya has long been a significant transit point for migrants aiming to reach Europe. The country’s ongoing political instability and conflict have exacerbated the situation, making it a hub for human trafficking and irregular migration.
The Libyan government, alongside various international organizations, has been striving to combat human trafficking and manage irregular migration. The recent deportations are part of a broader effort to address these issues. The Anti-Illegal Immigration Agency plays a crucial role in identifying and deporting migrants who enter the country illegally.
However, these deportations have raised concerns among human rights organizations. The conditions in which migrants are held and the manner of their deportation have been subjects of criticism. International bodies continue to call for more humane treatment of migrants and the establishment of legal pathways for asylum seekers and refugees.
Libya’s geographical location has made it a focal point for migrants from Africa and the Middle East. Over the years, the country has struggled with the influx of migrants, many of whom attempt perilous journeys across the Mediterranean Sea to Europe. The European Union has also been involved, with various agreements aimed at curbing the flow of migrants, often resulting in increased deportations and tighter border controls.
