(Author: Libyan Gazette Editorial Staff)
The bodies of 16 refugees were recovered by the Libyan Red Crescent from the shores of Libya’s coastal city Zuwarah, about 118 kilometers west of Tripoli.
“We have not been able to verify their nationalities, but they are presumed drowned after their boat sank,” said Khames El-Boussefi, the Libyan Red Crescent’s spokesperson, on Sunday.
According to the Red Crescent official, no identity documents were found on any of the refugees.
“The remains were handed over to the authorities who will take care of their burial,” said El-Boussefi.
The refugees had set out from Libya by boat in hopes of reaching Europe, he said.
Hundreds of refugees are risking their lives boarding boats in terrible condition all in pursuit of a better life in Europe.
On Wednesday, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees reported that close to 3,740 refugees drowned or went missing on route to Europe on the Mediterranean since the beginning of the year.