The Anti-Illegal Migration Authority in Libya has announced the deportation of 98 irregular migrants belonging to Egyptian and Sudanese nationalities.
According to an official statement, the operation was carried out in two groups. The first group, consisting of Egyptian nationals, was deported through the Umm Saad land crossing on Libya’s eastern border.
The second group, comprising migrants from Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Yemen, was transferred to the Qanfouda Shelter and Deportation Centre to complete the necessary repatriation procedures.
The Authority reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to coordinate with relevant national and international agencies to ensure the humane and orderly repatriation of migrants, in line with Libya’s immigration laws and international human rights standards.
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.