85 bodies of immigrants wash ashore in Libya

At least 85 bodies of migrants washed ashore in Libya's western city of Zwarah on Thursday as they attempted to cross the Mediterranean, an official of the Libyan Red Crescent confirmed

Tripoli: At least 85 bodies of migrants washed ashore in Libya's western city of Zwarah on Thursday as they attempted to cross the Mediterranean, an official of the Libyan Red Crescent confirmed.

Al-Khamis Al-Bosefi said that relief workers are recovering more bodies, including women and children, adding that the circumstances of their death are still unclear, Xinhua reported.

No sea rescue patrol was done this week due to poor weather conditions, Al-Bosefi said.

Zwarah's municipality council condemned "leniency and inaction of the state institutions and international organisations" towards the migrant crises in the city.

"The municipality of Zwarah holds the officials of the Libya institutions and international organisation responsible for the failure to provide assistance to fight this phenomenon," it said.

More than 40,000 immigrants have crossed the Mediterranean towards Europe this year. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, at least 880 immigrants drowned on the way to Europe this week.

Libya is a preferred point of departure for immigrants wanting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe due to insecurity and chaos.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!