The fate of 18 Iraqi migrants who entered Libya irregularly remains unknown, prompting a joint effort by Libyan and Iraqi authorities to uncover the truth. According to reports, the migrants went missing under unclear circumstances, sparking concerns that they may have perished at sea while attempting to reach Europe. The Iraqi embassy in Tripoli is working closely with Libyan authorities to gather information on the missing persons.

Iraqi Acting Ambassador to Libya Ahmed Al-Sahhaf confirmed that his embassy is actively following up on the case, coordinating with relevant Libyan and Iraqi agencies to determine the migrants' fate. The investigation includes verifying reports that the migrants may have attempted to cross the Mediterranean Sea. Al-Sahhaf emphasized that the embassy is working diligently to provide accurate information to the families of the missing migrants.

As part of the efforts to identify the missing migrants, the Iraqi and Libyan Red Crescents are collaborating to conduct DNA tests. The tests aim to match genetic samples from the migrants' families with any potential remains or unidentified individuals found during the search. This process is crucial in verifying the identities of the missing persons and providing closure to their families.

The case has prompted communication between various Libyan and Iraqi authorities, including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior in both countries. The involvement of multiple agencies reflects the complexity of the issue, particularly given the irregular nature of the migrants' entry into Libya and their potential attempts to reach Europe.

In addition to the 18 missing migrants, the Iraqi embassy is also monitoring the situation of other Iraqi migrants who are believed to have entered Libya irregularly and may be attempting to reach Europe. The embassy is working to gather information on these individuals and verify their status.

The uncertainty surrounding the fate of the 18 migrants has raised concerns about the risks faced by irregular migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea. The incident has highlighted the need for continued cooperation between Libyan and Iraqi authorities to address the issue of irregular migration and ensure the safety of those attempting to make the perilous journey.

The joint Libyan-Iraqi effort to determine the fate of the 18 missing migrants is ongoing, with authorities working to gather more information and conduct further investigations. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by migrants attempting to reach Europe through irregular means and the importance of international cooperation to address this complex issue.

Key points

  • - Libya and Iraq are collaborating to determine the fate of 18 Iraqi migrants who went missing after entering Libya irregularly. - DNA tests are being conducted to identify the missing migrants and provide closure to their families. - The incident has highlighted the risks faced by irregular migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea and the need for continued international cooperation to address the issue.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.