Ethiopian feared dead in Libya airstrikes

Harun Maruf, a VOA journalist sighting diplomatic sources has tweeted that an Ethiopian woman from the Somali region was among those who have lost their lives. The woman was identified as Najaax Cabdi.

However, The Reporter could not independently verify this fact.

The airstrike occurred on early Wednesday, July 3, 2019. The center is located in the Libyan capital.

In the statement sent to The Reporter by Libya Foreign Ministry via its embassy here in Addis Ababa, has accused Gen. Khalifa Hifter’s forces that led to the loss of lives. A number of reports indicate that close to 6,000 migrants from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somali as well as other African nations are believed to have taken shelter in different detention centers in Libya. Moreover, at least 2,800 migrants from the aforementioned countries are in dangerous situations because of the location of the detention centers. They are located on the front lines between Gen. Khalifa Hifter’s forces and warring groups.

“The Foreign Ministry of the National Accord Government strongly requests to document this crime which violates the international laws and norms and to be condemned by international human rights organizations and bring those responsible to justice.”

It also demands that the international community including the African Union, to take measures and investigate the crime.

The African Union on its part has also denounced the airstrikes. “Violence against civilians, including refugees and migrants, is utterly unacceptable.”

“Over 45,000 migrants relocated to their countries of origin and the evacuation of close to 4,000 persons, are in need of international protection. Many more are at risk and should be relocated and/or evacuated to safe places swiftly to receive assistance,” said in its statement.

“We also repeat our call on all sides in the conflict to respect international humanitarian laws and call for an immediate investigation into this attack,” read the statement.

Reporter