The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM) has voiced its grave concern over the discovery of mass graves containing dozens of migrant bodies in southeastern Libya. The findings, revealed on Monday, have further highlighted the dangers faced by migrants traversing Libya on their perilous journey to Europe.
On Sunday, Libyan authorities announced the discovery of at least 28 sub-Saharan migrant bodies in the district of Kufra, a region notorious for its trafficking operations. The bodies were found near a location believed to have been used for the detention and torture of migrants. The IOM confirmed that the graves contained the remains of migrants, some showing signs of gunshot wounds, with estimates suggesting up to 70 bodies may have been buried at the site.
In a separate incident, 19 bodies were uncovered in Jakharrah, located approximately 400 kilometers south of Benghazi. Though the exact timing of this discovery remains unclear, it underscores the ongoing scale of violence faced by migrants in the region. Libyan authorities found the graves after a police raid led to the rescue of hundreds of migrants from human traffickers. During the operation, three individuals were arrested—one Libyan national and two foreigners—who are suspected of involvement in the trafficking network.
While the identities and causes of death of the migrants remain unknown, the circumstances surrounding these grave sites are indicative of the growing crisis in Libya. The country has long been a critical transit hub for migrants, many of whom are fleeing poverty, violence, and instability in sub-Saharan Africa. Libya’s political fragmentation and ongoing conflict between rival factions have exacerbated the situation, leaving migrants vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
Libya has repeatedly come under fire from human rights organizations for its treatment of migrants and refugees, with reports of torture, extortion, and even slavery. As a key departure point for migrants seeking to cross the Mediterranean to Europe, Libya remains a focal point for human trafficking rings that exploit the chaos in the country.
This discovery is not an isolated incident. Last March, a mass grave containing at least 65 migrant bodies was found in southwest Libya. These horrific finds underscore the urgent need for international intervention to address both the root causes of migration and the rampant exploitation of migrants by traffickers.
The IOM has expressed deep shock over the latest revelations, calling for further investigations and stronger measures to protect migrants. The organization’s statement also emphasized the need for coordinated international efforts to combat human trafficking and provide humanitarian assistance to migrants trapped in Libya’s volatile environment.
The brutal treatment of migrants continues to be a crisis with devastating human consequences, and the international community’s response will be crucial in preventing further loss of life and suffering.
Logo Image by: © International Organization for Migration (IOM) | IOM Migration data portal
