Libyan authorities uncover 29 more migrant bodies in southeast mass grave

Libyan security forces have discovered on February 13 the bodies of 29 more migrants in a mass grave in the southeast of the country, bringing the total number of bodies recovered to 57. The new finds were made in Kufra, a large district in the southeastern part of Libya, and follow the discovery of 28 other bodies just days earlier.

The IOM (International Organization for Migration) confirmed that the bodies found in two separate mass graves bore signs of gunshot wounds, adding to the growing evidence of the deadly risks migrants face on their journey through Libya.

Mohamed Fadil, head of services tackling illegal migration in the region, told Reuters that authorities are expecting to uncover more graves as their operation continues. He revealed that the bodies have been carefully numbered and DNA samples have been taken for testing, with prosecutors and the criminal investigation department overseeing the recovery process. Images from the scene show Libyan security forces and Red Crescent volunteers working to identify the bodies in the desert, with white lines marking the mass graves.

Libya has tragically become a central transit point for migrants fleeing conflict and poverty in sub-Saharan Africa, attempting to reach Europe through perilous desert crossings and dangerous Mediterranean voyages. Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the country has struggled with instability, leaving migrants vulnerable to exploitation and violence. The discovery of these graves highlights the continuing dangers faced by those making the treacherous journey.