The Libyan Anti-Illegal Immigration Authority has announced the deportation of 250 undocumented Somali migrants through Tobruk International Airport, with their transfer to Sebha International Airport as a preliminary step before repatriation to Somalia.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page on Monday, the Authority said the operation is part of its ongoing efforts to implement a national security plan aimed at combating illegal migration, dismantling trafficking networks, and safeguarding Libya’s national security.
The deportation was carried out using a “Ilyushin Il-76” heavy military transport aircraft operated by the General Command of the Libyan National Army (LNA).
The Authority emphasized that these efforts will continue as part of a broader strategy to control borders and reduce irregular migration flows across Libyan territory.
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.
