30 migrants killed in revenge attack in Libya's Tripoli
Migrants resting on the floor of a detention centre, amidst concerns over the spread of the coronavirus disease in the city of Zawiya, Libya May 5, 2020. REUTERS/Stringer


The family of a Libyan people trafficker killed 30 migrants in revenge for his death, Libya's internationally recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) said on Thursday.

The GNA interior ministry said in a statement that 26 Bangladeshi and four African migrants had been killed in the town of Mizda and that 11 injured survivors were taken to a hospital in Zintan.

Libya has long been a destination for migrants because of its oil-funded economy but is also an important way-station for people attempting to reach Europe across the Mediterranean.

"We have just learned of this tragedy and are following up to get more details and provide assistance to survivors," said Safa Msehli, Libya spokeswoman for the International Organisation for Migration.