The International Organization for Migration said, today (Tuesday), quoting reports, that at least 18 immigrants were killed, while 50 others are still missing in a boat sinking accident off the city of Tobruk, in eastern Libya during the beginning of the week. The organization said that 10 survivors have been found so far. Tobruk is a coastal city located near the border with Egypt. Since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in an uprising supported by NATO in 2011, Libya has become a transit country for immigrants, fleeing wars and poverty to Europe across the desert and across the Mediterranean. The International Organization for Migration added: “This latest tragedy is a flagrant reminder of the deadly dangers, which people are forced to go into a search for safety and opportunities. Libya is still a major crossing point for immigrants and refugees, as many of them face exploitation, hurt and trips to their lives. In conjunction with this, the Tunisian Maritime Guard units intercepted 11 Algerians and Tunisians on a boat, commenting over a few days at sea, while trying to reach the Italian coast. The boat was launched from the coast of the Qala area in Algeria, since last Wednesday night, and was seized in international waters off the coast of the state of Bizerte, north of Tunisia, on Monday evening, according to what was reported by the “Tunis Africa News Agency”. The Algerians, who came from the state of Tarif, began their journey on a fishing boat, but they were forced to leave after the engine was broken, and the use of a smaller boat. The bad weather conditions prevented their progress on their journey towards the Italian coast to remain stuck for 4 days in the water.
Civil protection said they were in tiredness and weakness. While the Tunisian authorities announced their transfer to a hospital in Bizerte to receive first aid.
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