A devastating boat accident off the coast of Libya has resulted in the deaths of at least seven Pakistanis, with reports indicating that a total of 16 Pakistani nationals were aboard the vessel.

According to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the deceased individuals were from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with six hailing from Kurram district and one from Bajaur. Their identities were confirmed through their passports.

The tragic incident occurred when a boat carrying around 65 migrants capsized near the port of Marsa Dila, northwest of Libya’s Zawiya city. So far, 10 bodies have been recovered, while rescue efforts remain ongoing.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the incident in a statement released on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Pakistani embassy in Tripoli has sent a team to Zawiya Hospital to assist local authorities in identifying the victims.

Authorities continue to investigate the fate of the remaining passengers, including those still missing.