Tunisian authorities have thwarted 65 illegal immigration attempts and detained 2068 individuals trying to make their way to European territories during the Eid al-Adha holiday, as declared in a statement on Sunday.
In a statement, the Tunisian National Guard said that Coast guards in Sfax, Kerkennah, and Mahdia successfully obstructed 47 covert sea border crossings, rescuing a total of 1879 people, of which 1858 were from sub-Saharan Africa and 21 were Tunisians.
The statement further indicated that eighteen attempts were foiled by coast guards in Nabeul, Sousse, and Monastir, and 189 Tunisian migrants were rescued. They also confiscated 14 boats and three kayaks.
The National Guard has reported that “legal proceedings have been initiated against those detained, under the guidance of the Public Prosecution Office.”
Tunisia has recently experienced a considerable surge in irregular migration to Europe, particularly targeting the Italian coasts. This escalation presents significant challenges to Tunisia and the European countries dealing with immigration and asylum issues.
The foiling of 65 illegal crossings by Tunisian authorities underscores the country’s determination to safeguard its borders and maintain national security.
The government has prioritized border control measures, deploying resources and manpower to effectively monitor and patrol coastal areas susceptible to unauthorized crossings. By intercepting these illegal activities, Tunisia aims to prevent threats such as human trafficking, smuggling, and other transnational crimes. The continuous efforts to enhance border security reflect Tunisia’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting its citizens.
