TRIPOLI, Libya – An official with Libya's coast guard says at least 100 African migrants trying to reach Europe have drowned off the coast near the capital, Tripoli.
Abdel-Latif Ibrahim said Monday that the migrants were found off the shores of al-Qarbouli, 30 miles east of Tripoli. Their boat, which carried over 250 migrants, capsized late Friday. The Libyan coast guard has been looking for survivors. He said earlier that 16 people were rescued.
He said five of the victims were children.
The migrants, mostly African nationals, were heading to Europe on a perilous journey that kills scores of people every year.
Libya has grown increasingly lawless since the 2011 overthrow of dictator Muammar Qaddafi, making it a migration hub for sub-Saharan Africans seeking a better life.
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