The Libyan coastguard has told Reporters that the EU’s Operation Sophia, which was devised to prevent people smuggling, is actually encouraging illegal migrants to make the perilous journey to Europe.
Libya has become one of the main routes to the continent following a controversial EU deal with Turkey to close down the crossing to Greece across the Aegean Sea.
Under international law Europe’s naval vessels cannot enter Libyan waters; instead they must stay at least 12 nautical miles from the shore.
It means smugglers can take advantage by dragging boats out to sea and then setting their course for international waters – and providing they do not stray from Libyan waters they face no chance of getting caught.
