Libya steps up deportations of Sub-Saharan African migrants

Libyan authorities have announced a major ramp-up in deporting irregular migrants, mostly from sub-Saharan Africa, back to their home countries.

The move comes as European nations step up efforts to stop migrant arrivals. With Italy just 300 kilometres away, Libya remains a main departure point for thousands risking dangerous sea journeys to Europe each year.

At a press conference in Tripoli, Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi emphasized…