The Libyan Interior Ministry of the Government of National Unity announced on Monday the rescue of 13 irregular migrants of various African nationalities.
The migrants had been lost on foot in the remote area of Al-Hamada Al-Hamra, wandering across the valleys of Al-Milq, Zazmat, Qurira, and Al-Artam after being stranded.
The ministry detailed that the rescue operation was carried out by desert security patrols from the Qaryat Border Security Sector.
The statement added that the security forces provided necessary medical care to the migrants and transported them to the Qaryat security sector headquarters.
The migrants will be referred to the relevant authorities to proceed with the necessary legal measures.
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.