Libya discovers mass grave containing bodies of 21 African migrants
Libyan authorities have uncovered a mass grave containing the remains of at least 21 African migrants in a desert area of the country, highlighting once again the grave dangers faced by migrants along irregular migration routes.
Officials said the bodies were discovered during a security operation in a remote location believed to be linked to human trafficking activities. Preliminary findings suggest the victims were migrants attempting to transit through Libya en route to Europe.
Investigations are ongoing to establish the identities of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding their deaths, with authorities suspecting abuse, abandonment, or extreme conditions linked to smuggling networks.
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International Reactions
Reacting to the discovery, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) described the incident as “tragic and deeply disturbing,” calling for urgent action to protect migrants along transit routes.
“This discovery is a stark reminder of the lethal risks migrants face when forced into the hands of criminal smuggling and trafficking networks,” the IOM said, urging stronger international cooperation to dismantle such networks and provide safer migration pathways.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) also expressed concern, stressing the need for improved protection for migrants and asylum seekers in Libya.
“These deaths underscore the urgent need for humane migration policies and enhanced protection mechanisms for vulnerable people on the move,” UNHCR said, while calling on authorities to ensure accountability for those responsible.
READ ALSO: Libyan gov’t uncovers mass grave for migrants, rescues 76 from torture
Human rights organisations have similarly renewed calls for investigations into abuses against migrants in Libya, where reports of torture, forced labour, and inhumane detention conditions remain widespread.
Further forensic examinations are expected as Libyan authorities continue investigations into the mass grave.
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