Tripoli, 9 Aug, 2023 (GNP): Disturbing reports have emerged of a dire humanitarian crisis as at least 27 people, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa, have lost their lives after being expelled from Tunisia and abandoned in the scorching desert near the Libya border. Libyan authorities confirm the tragic discovery of bodies in the vast desert expanse, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to prevent further loss of life.
According to Libyan border guards and accounts from refugees and migrants, the individuals were forced to undertake grueling journeys in extreme heat, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The refugees and migrants were subjected to unimaginable hardships, including walking for days without access to water, food, or shelter.
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The situation highlights alleged practices of “collective expulsions,” as both Libyan border guards and rights groups accuse Tunisia of forcibly expelling refugees and migrants across the border, leaving them stranded in remote and desolate areas far from any form of assistance.
The expulsion of Black African migrants and asylum seekers from Tunisia began in July, following episodes of violence in the port city of Sfax. This tragic sequence of events has led to further suffering and loss of life, sparking global concerns for the safety and dignity of those affected.
According to Libyan border guards, 150 people come to Libya on average each day after being expelled from Tunisia.
While Tunisia’s Ministry of the Interior denies allegations of desert expulsions, reports continue to emerge detailing the heart-wrenching circumstances faced by those left stranded in the unforgiving desert terrain. The International Organization for Migration and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees have expressed deep concern for the well-being of migrants and refugees who have been pushed to the borders, far from necessary resources and aid.
In latest tragic episodes of life loss of migrants this week, 3 shipwrecks departed off the coasts of Tunisia resulted in 14 dead and 72 remain missing. Migrants mostly from sub-Saharan African countries.
Tunisian Prosecutor's Office in Sfax announces an investigation. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/sV7RQMBL2a
— IOM MENA (@IOM_MENA) August 8, 2023
Following Saied’s announcement of a crackdown on migrants in February, thousands of migrants who had been residing in Tunisia have attempted to leave for Europe this year. Saied claimed that their presence was part of a scheme to alter Tunisia’s demographic composition.
The humanitarian community is urgently calling for immediate action to address this crisis and prevent further life loss.