60 feared dead in deadly Libya shipwreck

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported two deadly shipwrecks off Libya’s coast in recent days.

According to the report, at least 60 people are feared missing at sea, IOM said in a statement released Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

The two separate incidents occurred along Libya’s western coastal route, heavily used by migrants attempting to reach Europe.

One of the boats was carrying dozens of people when it capsized in rough waters, officials said.

IOM rescue teams were dispatched to the area but could only confirm a few survivors.

“We fear many lives have been lost,” said IOM’s Libya Chief of Mission, Tauhid Pasha.

The other vessel sank shortly after leaving the port city of Zuwara, close to the Tunisian border.

Local fishermen recovered several bodies near the coast, including two young children.

Authorities say the total death toll may rise as search efforts continue along the Libyan shoreline.

Survivors described horrifying scenes as the boats sank in high waves, with many unable to swim.

IOM said the passengers were mostly from sub-Saharan African countries, seeking asylum or better economic opportunities in Europe.

Many of them had paid smugglers hundreds of dollars for the dangerous sea crossing.

These tragedies add to a growing migrant death toll in the central Mediterranean in 2025.

Over 800 migrants have died or gone missing this year alone, according to IOM statistics.

Libya remains a major transit hub for migrants despite ongoing political instability and lawlessness.

“Without safe legal pathways, people will keep dying at sea,” said an IOM spokesperson.

The agency renewed calls for urgent international action to expand rescue missions and address root causes of migration.

Efforts by Libyan authorities to intercept migrant boats have drawn criticism over reported abuse and detention.

The UN has urged all countries to increase support for humanitarian operations in North Africa.

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