Libya’s Department for Combating Illegal Migration has transferred 200 undocumented migrants from the Qanfouda detention centre in Benghazi to the Al-Kufra facility, in preparation for their deportation. The operation is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to manage irregular migration and coordinate actions across detention centres.
According to a statement by the department’s media office, the migrants are of Sudanese and Chadian nationalities. Among them, 47 individuals were reported to be suffering from various medical conditions. Deportation orders have already been issued for several of the migrants, as Libyan authorities tighten their approach to handling illegal entry and residence.
The relocation aligns with broader inter-agency coordination among Libyan migration control branches. It reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the rising numbers of undocumented migrants and the pressures they place on public services and security infrastructure.
Libya has long been a key transit country for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean to reach Europe. However, political instability, weak border control, and the lack of comprehensive migration policies have contributed to the growing complexity of managing the situation.
Imad Trabelsi, Interior Minister in the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity, recently estimated that over three million irregular migrants currently reside in Libya. This staggering figure underscores the scale of the crisis and the challenges faced by Libyan authorities.
Human rights organisations continue to express concern over the conditions in detention centres and the treatment of migrants. Nevertheless, the Libyan government maintains that its actions are necessary to regain control over its borders and reduce human trafficking and smuggling networks.
The latest relocation of migrants is expected to be followed by further measures, including deportations and cooperation with countries of origin, in efforts to manage the humanitarian and security aspects of irregular migration in Libya.
