The bodies of five asylum seekers were recovered along Libya’s coastline near the capital, Tripoli, as Greek authorities confirmed three more deaths in a separate migrant boat tragedy off the island of Crete.
Bodies recovered near Qasr al-Akhyar
Residents of the coastal town of Qasr al-Akhyar discovered the bodies on Saturday. Hassan al-Ghawil, head of investigations at the local police station, said the deceased included two women and were believed to be migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean.
Authorities alerted the Red Crescent to retrieve the remains. A child’s body was reportedly seen washing ashore before being swept back by waves. Officials fear more bodies may surface in the coming days.
The deaths follow a February 9 incident in which the International Organization for Migration reported 53 migrants dead or missing after a rubber boat capsized off Zuwara.
Boat capsizes off Crete
In a separate incident, Greek authorities recovered three bodies and rescued at least 20 people after a wooden boat capsized off Crete. Survivors, including Egyptians, Sudanese nationals and four minors, said around 50 people had been on board.
According to Greek public broadcaster ERT, the vessel overturned during a rescue effort. Search operations involved patrol boats, an aircraft and vessels from Frontex.
Data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees indicates more than 16,770 asylum seekers arrived in Crete in 2025, while at least 107 people died or went missing in Greek waters this year.
The central Mediterranean remains one of the world’s deadliest migration routes, with hundreds reported dead or missing amid worsening weather and overcrowded vessels.