Libya: refugee border ordeal

Thousands of refugees are being prevented from leaving Libya, the UK Government and aid agencies fear.

Satellite images show large numbers gathered near the border with Tunisia. But the dramatic flow of migrant workers has all but ceased.

United Nations refugee agency UNHCR said pro-Gaddafi forces were now in control of the Ras Jedir border crossing. And it fears thousands trying to flee are being held back.

Unhcr spokeswoman Melissa Fleming said: "We are very concerned. We have heard those who did get across had their mobile phones and cameras stolen. Many appear to be scared."

International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell, speaking during a 24-hour visit to a sprawling refugee camp in Tunisia yesterday, said: "It is worrying. The flow of people did not slow down, it came to an abrupt halt.

"It seems people are being held 15km from the border." Mr Mitchell visited medical facilities and saw UK-supplied tents being put up in the desert - now home to 12,500 refugees.

Bangladeshi Mobarak Faruk, 25, who suffered a broken leg after being beaten by Libyan police, told him: "I just wanted to get out. On the way, police stopped us and robbed us."

Aid agencies said 200,000 people have now crossed Libya's borders.

Britain sent 36,000 blankets and 300 tents earlier this week. A second flight arriving today is due to deliver 2,000 blankets and 1,100 tents.