Reflecting the rising number of maritime incidents in the southern Mediterra-nean accompanying the start of the warmer weather months, a large number of boat rescue operations have been reported in the last week. Between May 22 and 28th, over 3,500 migrants have been rescued through several operations in Libyan waters near Zawiya and Sabratha, and transferred to Abu Eissa and Al Shuhada’ detention centres in Zawiya.
The migrants are in dire condition, and the capacity of the detention centres to provide initial emergency assistance and meet their needs is severely strained. Local humanitarian organizations have requested urgent supplies, including hygiene kits, diapers, baby formula, blankets, pillows, clothing and shoes to fill this gap, and pointed to the need for medical examinations for the detainees as well.
The information provided about the rescues is based on initial reports and estimates provided by the Libyan Red Crescent and IOM implementing partners Shaikh Tahir Azzawi Charity Organization (STACO) and Psychosocial Sup-port Team (PSS)*.