A devastating road accident in southeastern Libya claimed the lives of twelve Sudanese nationals, including women and children, according to a statement released on Friday by the Emergency and Ambulance Service.
The fatal crash occurred approximately 90 kilometers north of the city of Al-Kufra. The collision involved a passenger vehicle, identified as a Toyota Escudo, and a heavy truck. Emergency teams were immediately dispatched to the site following an urgent call.
In addition to the 12 confirmed fatalities, two other individuals sustained injuries of varying severity. They were transported to Atiyah Al-Kasah Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the collision, but investigations are ongoing. The accident underscores the ongoing safety concerns along remote desert roads in Libya, particularly in migrant transit zones.
Al-Kufra lies along one of the key smuggling routes frequently used by migrants from Sudan and other African countries attempting to move northward through Libya.
This latest tragedy comes amid increasing concerns over road safety and migrant protection in the region.
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.
