Security patrols in eastern Libya have detained 16 irregular migrants from Bangladesh in the city of Al-Bayda during an operation aimed at curbing illegal migration attempts along the Libyan coast.
The operation was carried out by the Security Operations Department under the Anti-Illegal Migration Authority, following directives from its head, Major General Salah Mahmoud Al-Khafifi. The action forms part of an ongoing security plan to strengthen monitoring and combat human smuggling networks operating in the Green Mountain (Jabal Al-Akhdar) region.
According to security officials, the department received a report indicating that a group of irregular migrants had gathered inside the city and were preparing to embark on an illegal migration journey via Libya’s Mediterranean coast.
Security patrols were immediately dispatched to the location, where officers successfully detained the group. Authorities confirmed that all 16 individuals were Bangladeshi nationals.
After the arrest, legal procedures were initiated and the migrants were transferred to the Qanfouda shelter center to complete the necessary legal processing in accordance with Libyan law.
Authorities said the operation is part of broader efforts to track and disrupt illegal migration networks, while strengthening security across areas under the department’s jurisdiction.
Separate Security Operation
In a separate incident, security patrols from the same department arrested an irregular migrant from Ghana during a security ambush after tracking his movements for several days.
Officials said the suspect had been wanted in connection with a physical assault case. After confirming intelligence about his location, security forces set up a coordinated ambush that led to his arrest.
During the arrest, officers discovered suspected hashish and materials used for drug consumption in the suspect’s possession. The individual was subsequently referred to the Public Prosecution for further investigation and legal action.
Growing Challenge of Irregular Migration
Security authorities reiterated their commitment to pursuing individuals involved in criminal activities and strengthening security measures to combat both crime and illegal migration.
In recent years, several Libyan cities have witnessed an increase in irregular migration attempts, with smuggling networks exploiting Libya’s strategic geographic position as a major departure point for migrants attempting to reach Europe across the Mediterranean Sea.
Libyan security agencies continue to conduct operations targeting both migrants and human trafficking networks as part of wider efforts to curb illegal migration and maintain stability in cities across the country.
