A mass grave containing the bodies of at least 65 migrants has been discovered in Libya, as reported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The circumstances surrounding their deaths and their nationalities remain unknown, but it is believed they perished while being smuggled through the desert en route to the Mediterranean, according to the IOM.

The organization, a part of the United Nations, expressed deep shock at the revelation and stated that Libya is currently investigating the matter.

Located in south-west Libya, the grave’s discovery has prompted concern and calls for action.

A spokesperson for the IOM remarked, “Each report of a missing migrant or a loss of life represents a grieving family searching for answers about their loved ones or acknowledging the tragedy of the loss.”

Highlighting the dire situation, the spokesperson emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address migrant smuggling and establish legal migration channels.

Libya serves as a major departure point for migrants attempting to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean.

The IOM, headquartered in Geneva, has urged Libyan authorities and other UN agencies to ensure the dignified recovery, identification, and transfer of the remains.

This grim finding follows another tragic incident where at least 60 migrants, departing from the Libyan coast, lost their lives when their rubber dinghy encountered trouble in the Mediterranean Sea.

Earlier this month, the IOM reported that 2023 marked the deadliest year for migrants since records began a decade ago, with a staggering 8,565 individuals perishing on migration routes worldwide.

The UN agency, dedicated to providing humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations in Libya, highlighted a 20% increase in fatalities compared to the previous year.