Source: UNHCR

Migrant arrivals to Italy in August have decreased dramatically when compared to the last 5-year record. Only 3,914 people disembarked in August compared to 23,999 in August 2016. The Libyan Coast Guard has increased the control in its SAR zone, returning the migrant boats to Libya and the migrants to squalid detention centres where human rights abuses have been reported.

Sabratha has been the main departing point for migrants and refugees leaving from the Libyan shores this year. However since July smugglers have adapted to developments and moved to new locations such as Al Mayha ( Zawiya district ) , Garabulli and Al Khums, due to the increasing pressure in Sabratha area.