73 presumed dead in Libya shipwreck

At least 73 migrants were reported missing and presumed dead following a shipwreck off the Libyan coast on Tuesday, according to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Libya.

Seven survivors made it to shore from the boat, which was carrying around 80 people, which had reportedly departed from Qasr Alkayar, east of Tripoli, to head to Europe, the IOM added.

So far, 11 bodies have been retrieved by the Libyan Red Crescent and the local police, while the seven survivors are in hospital, the IOM said.

Libya has become a major launching point for migrants seeking to reach Europe via a dangerous route across the desert and over the Mediterranean.

🚨 At least 73 migrants are reported missing and presumed dead following a tragic shipwreck off the Libyan coast yesterday according to @UNmigration in Libya.

The boat, carrying around 80 people, reportedly departed from Qasr Alkayar on 14 February heading to Europe. pic.twitter.com/fGtUW6bkhT

— IOM Libya (@IOM_Libya) February 15, 2023