Libyan authorities have deported 80 Nigerian migrants who were being held in various detention facilities across the country, in what officials described as part of ongoing efforts to curb irregular migration and ease overcrowding in holding centers.
The Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM), in partnership with the Nigerian Consulate in Tripoli, facilitated the repatriation through Mitiga International Airport on Wednesday.
According to Migrant Rescue Watch, a group that tracks migrant welfare and human rights in Libya, the deportation followed judicial orders issued by the Libyan Judicial Police.
The group said the operation was carried out in collaboration with Nigerian consular officials to ensure that the returnees were properly documented and given the necessary consular assistance before departure.