The Libyan government on Tuesday carried out the repatriation of 369 irregular migrants to their home countries of Nigeria and Mali, according to a Libyan official.
Among the repatriated were over a hundred women and children, highlighting the vulnerability of migrant populations in the North African nation.
Mohammed Baredaa, head of the Libyan interior ministry’s anti-irregular migration unit, confirmed that two flights were organized in coordination with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to transport 204 Nigerians and 165 Malians back to their respective countries.
Disturbingly, the group included nine infants, eighteen minors, and 108 women.
While the IOM operates a voluntary humanitarian return program offering migrants free flights and reintegration support, allegations of forced deportations have surfaced.
A 59-year-old Nigerian man, who requested anonymity, claimed that Libyan authorities forcibly entered his home, confiscated his passport, and detained him along with his wife before their repatriation.
Libya has been grappling with the aftermath of the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi, leading to a prolonged period of instability.
The ensuing chaos has created a lucrative environment for human traffickers, turning the country into a major transit point for migrants seeking a better life in Europe.
As a result, Libya has faced mounting international criticism over the treatment of migrants and refugees, with accusations of human rights abuses including extortion and slavery.
Despite joint efforts by Libya and the European Union to curb irregular migration, thousands remain stranded in the country.
Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi recently acknowledged the growing migrant population in Libya, describing it as a crisis that requires immediate attention.
With an estimated four out of five foreigners in the country lacking legal documentation, the Libyan government is determined to address the issue and prevent Libya from becoming a permanent settlement for migrants.