Tunisian authorities have peacefully cleared a large informal camp that housed around 3,000 undocumented migrants in the port city of Sfax. This move is part of a broader plan by the government to dismantle all illegal migrant camps across the country. The evacuation was carried out without violence, according to officials on the scene.
A representative from the Tunisian National Guard confirmed to Al Arabiya English that the government intends to continue removing what it terms “irregular migrants” from these informal sites. “The most important part about this process is that it happened in a smooth and peaceful way,” stated Houssem Eddine Jebabli. He added that the current strategy will not be reversed.
Many migrants reportedly expressed interest in returning to their home countries. Authorities are encouraging voluntary repatriation, although some forced deportations have already occurred in past operations.
Why are migrants being evacuated from Sfax?
Sfax has become a key launch point for African migrants trying to reach Europe by boat. Over recent years, thousands of migrants have gathered there, hoping to cross the Mediterranean, often using boats provided by traffickers. This influx has caused tensions in the region and contributed to what many describe as a migration crisis for Tunisia.
Earlier this month, the government dismantled makeshift camps that were sheltering more than 7,000 sub-Saharan migrants. These efforts are part of a larger crackdown on unauthorized migration, with security forces continuing operations in the southern regions of the country.
According to authorities, around 20,000 migrants are still living in forests and abandoned areas in southern towns like Amra and Jbeniana. These individuals were previously blocked from making the sea crossing to Europe and have since remained in Tunisia under difficult conditions.
Tensions between local residents and migrants have been rising. Many locals have called on the government to remove migrant settlements from their communities due to ongoing clashes and safety concerns.
As the situation develops, Tunisian officials say they remain committed to resolving the crisis through a combination of peaceful evacuations and international cooperation on migration management.