Libya’s SSA rescues 29 Syrians from drowning

Libya’s Stability Support Apparatus (SSA) conducted an emergency rescue operation off the coast of Al-Khoums city, 97km southeast of Tripoli, following reports of a vessel in distress.

The operation resulted in the rescue of 31 Syrian nationals, of whom 29 were saved whilst two others lost their lives in the incident.

The Maritime Rescue Unit of the SSA’s Al-Khoums branch coordinated the response after receiving distress signals from a boat in the coastal area.

The rescue team immediately mobilised to the scene, where they found a capsized vessel with multiple passengers in danger.

Of the 31 Syrian nationals involved in the incident, 25 were rescued in stable condition. Four survivors required specialised medical attention and were transferred to local healthcare facilities for treatment. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, two individuals could not be saved.

“We extend our deepest condolences to their families,” stated the Stability Support Apparatus in an official communication to Libyan Express.

Following the rescue operation, the SSA disposed of the abandoned vessel in compliance with maritime safety protocols, a measure taken to prevent its potential reuse in unauthorised sea crossings.

All surviving passengers have been transferred to relevant authorities for processing and will receive appropriate support services.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maritime safety and irregular migration in the Mediterranean region.

About the Stability Support Apparatus

The Stability Support Apparatus (SSA) is a specialised security force operating under the Government of National Unity in Libya. Established in January 2021, the organisation plays a crucial role in maintaining security and providing emergency response services across the country.

The SSA is particularly active in coastal regions, where it conducts maritime rescue operations and coordinates with other national security agencies to manage border security and combat unauthorised migration attempts.

Al-Khoums office, which led this rescue operation, is one of several regional branches of the SSA responsible for monitoring and responding to maritime emergencies along Libya’s extensive Mediterranean coastline.

The organisation has been instrumental in numerous rescue operations and continues to strengthen its capabilities in maritime safety and emergency response.

Mediterranean Migration Crisis: Libya’s Central Role

Libya has remained a primary departure point for migrants attempting to reach European shores, particularly Italy and Malta.

According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), more than 186,000 people arrived in Europe via Mediterranean routes in 2023, with a significant portion departing from Libyan shores.

The Central Mediterranean route, which primarily originates from Libya, is considered one of the world’s deadliest migration paths. In 2023, the IOM’s Missing Migrants Project documented more than 2,500 deaths and disappearances in the Central Mediterranean alone, though experts believe the actual figures may be higher due to unreported cases.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that among those attempting the crossing, Syrians consistently represent one of the largest nationality groups, alongside individuals from various African nations.

The agency estimates that approximately 15% of those attempting the crossing from Libya are Syrian nationals, often fleeing ongoing conflict in their home country.