On Friday, the Tunisian National Guard announced the thwarting of a maritime border crossing operation and the rescue of 34 illegal migrants of various nationalities in the city of Zarzis.
In a statement, the National Guard explained that naval units managed to rescue 34 illegal migrants and retrieve two bodies after their boat capsized.
The National Guard indicated that preliminary information suggests that around 70 people set sail from the shores of a neighbouring country and their boat capsized. Search efforts are underway for the missing individuals.
Tunisia, located in North Africa, has long been a transit country for migrants seeking to reach Europe, particularly from countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
Economic hardships, political instability, and lack of opportunities in their home countries often drive migrants to undertake perilous journeys across the Mediterranean Sea.
The Tunisian coast has witnessed numerous instances of migrant boats attempting to cross into European waters, with varying degrees of success.
In recent years, authorities in Tunisia, along with international organizations, have intensified efforts to combat human trafficking and provide assistance to migrants in distress at sea.
Despite these efforts, the issue remains a significant challenge for Tunisia, highlighting the complexities of migration and border security in the region.
