Libyan authorities deported 179 undocumented Egyptian migrants from the city of Tobruk on Tuesday, according to a statement by the local branch of the Anti-Illegal Immigration Agency.
The mass deportation operation was carried out under the directives of Major General Salah Mahmoud Al-Khafifi, Head of the Anti-Illegal Immigration Agency.
This move comes as part of Libya’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal migration and dismantle organized trafficking networks. The operation was conducted in coordination with Libyan security forces and international partners working to combat irregular migration.
Officials stressed that the deportations align with Libya’s commitment to enforcing national laws and upholding international agreements regarding migration and border control.
Libya remains a major transit point for migrants attempting to cross into Europe, prompting intensified security measures to monitor and prevent illegal border crossings.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
