1000 Migrants Rescued Off The Coast of Libya
Various aid groups have confirmed that they have successfully rescued 1000 migrants off the coast of Libya, in a joint rescue operation.
Two Mediterranean aid groups, Medecins sans Frontieres (MSF) and SOS Mediterrane, confirmed that they were able to rescue 1000 migrants, fleeing Libya, on Sunday. They did however also confirm that they found one deceased woman on one of the rudimentary vessels.
Two rescue ships picked up the migrants, who were believed to be on their way to Italy. The rescue operation lasted for approximately six hours.
The continuous deterioration of living conditions in Libya has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee the country, and seek a better life in Europe.
According to human rights organisations and various aid groups, more than 22 000 people have been picked up and rescued by aid groups whilst on their way to Europe from Libya since the start of the year.
The United Nations estimate that close to 500 migrants have died at sea en route to Europe since the start of 2017.
Earlier this week, 250 African migrants are also feared to have drowned while making the journey to Europe, after a rescue ship found five corpses floating in the water close to two, sinking rubber boats.
Since the end of 2013, it is estimated that more than 500 000 migrants have dared to make the perilous journey to Europe, fleeing the increasing hostile conditions in Libya. Some being more successful than others.
