Over 400 Migrants Rescued Off Libyan Coast in 7 Days: IOM

In a statement on Monday, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported a significant increase in the number of migrants rescued off the coast of Libya over the past week, Xinhua reported today.

According to the IOM, between May 12 and 18, a total of 409 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya. The rescued group included 47 women and 31 children. Tragically, the bodies of 6 migrants were also recovered, while 20 others remain missing.

The latest rescues bring the total number of migrants saved in Libyan waters so far this year to 5,831. However, the dangerous Mediterranean crossing has already claimed the lives of 163 people, with 360 more listed as missing.

The surge in migrant activity highlights the ongoing instability in Libya, which has struggled with political and economic turmoil since the 2011 overthrow of former leader Muammar Gaddafi. Many undocumented migrants, primarily from Africa, continue to risk the perilous journey across the sea in search of better opportunities in Europe.

The IOM’s report underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive, humanitarian response to address the complex migrant crisis unfolding along Libya’s shores.