Egypt deports 32 Eritreans

2009-01-07 19:16

Cairo - Egypt is deporting 32 Eritreans who were arrested over the past two months trying to cross into Israel.

An Egyptian security official tasked with detaining and deporting illegal immigrants said the Eritreans were flown on Wednesday to Asmara, the Eritrean capital.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorised to speak to the media.

Thousands of Africans sneak into Egypt every year seeking employment or passage to Israel in search of a better life.

International human rights groups have previously criticised Egypt for deporting African migrants, saying the Africans are often at risk of torture and other ill-treatment at home.

The UN says many men in Eritrea are forced into military service.

- AP