Libya: at least 40 dead after migrant boat capsizes
- 10 years ago
The Libyan government said that at least 40 migrants had drowned when their boat sank off the country’s coast on Tuesday, May 6.
Earlier reports indicated that 24 deaths had been confirmed. The increased death toll follows the recovery of more bodies over the weekend.
The vessel was carrying 130 people. The Libyan navy said 51 people had been rescued.
The Libyan Interior Ministry said it believed the vessel had got into difficulty around 37 miles east of Tripoli.
Libya’s proximity to Italy and Malta and its porous borders with its sub-Saharan neighbours have made it a popular crossing point for African migrants trying to enter the EU.
Earlier reports indicated that 24 deaths had been confirmed. The increased death toll follows the recovery of more bodies over the weekend.
The vessel was carrying 130 people. The Libyan navy said 51 people had been rescued.
The Libyan Interior Ministry said it believed the vessel had got into difficulty around 37 miles east of Tripoli.
Libya’s proximity to Italy and Malta and its porous borders with its sub-Saharan neighbours have made it a popular crossing point for African migrants trying to enter the EU.