afrol News, 19 December - It has been reported that Libyan security has intercepted at least 416 illegal African emigrants who wanted to use the desert North African country as a springboard to sail through Europe.

A communiqué issued by the Libyan General Cooperation Department in Tripoli, stated that between 27 November and 6 December, Libyan coastguards and specialised security services, arrested 416 people of different nationalities while on their way to Europe.

Besides, Libya's robust security forces have repatriated 512 people believed to be illegal emigrants. "The operations form part of the sustained efforts by our security services to do-away with illegal emigration," added a statement.

In recent times, illegal emigration has become a contentious issue in Libya, with the country's bureau for Public Safety asking people to be wary of the dangers posed by the act.

For a long time, the country's specialised security forces have been painstakingly investigating the roots networks of illegal emigration in the country. Libyan authorities believe that their citizens connive with illegal emigrants to facilitate their trip to Europe.

Like most North African countries of Morocco and Algeria, illegal migrants from Africa who have been forced to vacate their countries as a result of entrenched economic instabilities, continue to use Libya as a sailing point to Europe to search for treasure.

Libya has been strongly criticised by human rights groups for its hard-handed treatment of illegal immigrants, which allegedly have been held in inhumane conditions. Many also are said to have been sent back to their country of origin without having their case individually treated, which is against international law.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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