50 Dead As Migrant Boat Capsizes In Mediterranean Sea

In what could be one of the worst sea tragedies in recent times, a migrant boat carrying dozens of passengers capsized in the middle of Mediterranean sea off the coast of Libya on Friday, leaving at least 50 feared dead or missing. 

According to the United Nations’ migration agency, the tragedy took place when the boat was heading towards Europe. Only two people have reportedly survived the accident as the rescue operations are still underway to retrieve the bodies. The deceased also includes two babies. 

The boat was carrying mostly migrants and refugees from several African countries who were bound to several European countries in search of safety and opportunity. The boat departed from Al-Zawiya, west of Tripoli, around 11 pm on February 5 and just after six hours into the journey, the vessel overturned in the open sea, with little scope for survival. 

Every year, hundreds of migrants attempt to cross the Mediterranean Sea and risk their lives despite inclement weather conditions and harsh tides. Last year alone, at least 1,873 people lost their lives on the route and most of them along the central crossing from North Africa.