Libyan authorities intercepted 87 migrants in recent maritime operations, while a separate shipwreck off Tunisia left at least three people dead and several others missing, according to a post by Jihed, a PhD researcher in bioprotection of plants.

Jihed said that on Friday, August 21, forces of the General Administration for Coastal Security, affiliated with the eastern Libyan General Command, intercepted two boats north of Sirte at about 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

A total of 52 people of different nationalities were intercepted during the operations.

In a separate operation off Ras al-Tin, the coastal security forces intercepted another boat carrying 35 people, including 33 Sudanese and two Egyptians. The passengers were reportedly forced back to Tobruk.

The latest interceptions bring the number of people intercepted in the operations to 87, according to Jihed.

He described the situation as a recurring cycle of interception, forced return to Libya and detention.

Meanwhile, a deadly shipwreck was reported late Thursday near Jdaria in Ben Guerdane, Tunisia, after a boat carrying more than 15 people sank while attempting to reach Italy.

Local fishermen from Ben Guerdane, Zarzis and Djerba reportedly rushed to the scene and rescued two young Tunisian men who were said to be in critical condition.

Three bodies have also reportedly been recovered, while several others remain missing, including a pregnant woman.

Jihed called for intensified search and rescue efforts, stressing that every minute was crucial in efforts to locate those still missing.