Tunisian National Guard Thwarts 88 Illegal Immigration Attempts, Rescues 1,131 Immigrants in Mediterranean Operations

Tunisia’s National Guard successfully thwarted 88 illegal immigration attempts to cross the Mediterranean to Italy, according to an official statement released on Thursday. The Tunisian National Guard, through vigilant maritime efforts between October 2 and October 4, rescued a total of 1,131 illegal immigrants from perilous sinking boats. Among those rescued, 543 individuals represented various African nationalities, while the rest were Tunisian nationals, as detailed in an official Facebook message.

This substantial rescue operation follows the launch of a security campaign by Tunisian security authorities in the southeastern province of Sfax, aimed at curbing the alarming rise in illegal immigration. Directed by Tunisian President Kais Saied, the initiative sought to address the issue of illegal immigration, particularly from Sfax’s coast, which has become a significant departure point for immigrants attempting to reach the Italian island of Lampedusa.

Lampedusa, located just 80 km from the Tunisian coastline, has been a preferred destination for immigrants embarking on their sea voyages towards Italy. The recent efforts by the Tunisian National Guard underscore the nation’s commitment to ensuring maritime security and addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration in the region.