Libya’s coastguards intercept 199 illegal migrants off the country’s coast

BY Libyan Express Jun 22, 2019 - 19:59

Migrants intercepted off Libyan coast. [Photo: Internet]

Libya’s coastguards have intercepted Europe-bound vessels carrying nearly 200 illegal migrants, including women, off the country’s Mediterranean coast.

Libyan Navy spokesman Ayoub Qassim said Saturday that five rubber boats carrying 199 migrants were intercepted over the past several days near the capital, Tripoli.

“Libyan coast guard intercepted 39 migrants Wednesday in two boats, another boat with 17 migrants Thursday and two more with 143 migrants Friday.” Qassim said.

He added that all illegal migrants were Africans, except eight from Bangladesh.

“They were given humanitarian and medical aid, then taken to refugee camps in Tripoli.” Qassim explained.

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