TRIPOLI – The United Nations on Wednesday said the Libyan coast guard stopped 113 migrants trying to reach Italy over the past two days as boat departures resume following a lull in fighting between rival forces in Libya.
The western Libyan coast is a major departure point for African migrants fleeing conflict and poverty and trying to reach Italy across the Mediterranean Sea with the help of human traffickers.
Smuggling activity slowed when forces led by military commander Khalifa Haftar launched an offensive to take the capital Tripoli, home to Libya’s internationally recognized government. (Reuters)
