Libya intercepts and returns two boats carrying 550 migrants bound for Europe

Libya has emerged as the dominant transit point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa hoping for a better life in Europe (AP Photo/Ahmed Hatem)

Libya’s coastguard intercepted two boats carrying more than 550 Europe-bound migrants off the country’s shore, the UN refugee agency has said.

It marked the latest sea interceptions amid a surge of crossings and attempted crossings from the North African nation to European shores in recent months. It took place two days after a massive crackdown on migrants in a western Libyan town that resulted in the roundup of at least 4,000 migrants.