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Tragic Boat Disaster Off Libya's Eastern Coast: 7 Rescued, 17 Dead

Apr 30, Kathmandu - Libyan Humanitarian Relief Agency (LIBAID) and the Libyan Red Crescent. reports that a boat carrying irregular migrants sank off Libya's eastern coast, resulting in seven survivors and the recovery of 17 bodies.

According to a statement from the organization, a patrol vessel based at Tobruk's naval base launched search and rescue operations. The incident occurred after the vessel and those onboard were stranded at sea for eight days under harsh conditions, leading to seven deaths and numerous injuries.

The rescue operation, coordinated by Libya's navy units and coastguard, lasted over eight hours, the statement added.

Due to its proximity to Europe and the Mediterranean coastline, Libya has become a major transit hub for irregular migrants. Seasonal weather conditions typically increase border crossings between March and September.