Dramatic footage has emerged of migrants diving into the Mediterranean in an attempt to save themselves from the same waters that killed at least 46 on Monday morning.

Several migrants, some of whom are struggling to swim, can be seen leaping from an inflatable dinghy which is crammed with sub-Saharan Africans and slowly filling with water. The amateur video was shot from a passing commercial vessel, the Zeran, whose crew are shown throwing ropes to the men.

Some migrants appear to be emptying fuel cans to create makeshift buoyancy aids, while others are scaling rope-ladders lowered by the crew of the Zeran.

The civil war in Libya has made it easier for smugglers to transport people through the country. As a result, the number of people fleeing war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East to reach Europe via the Mediterranean Sea has surged since last year. So far this year more than 1,800 migrants may have drowned attempting the journey.

Seeking Asylum in Europe
Many refugees sought asylum in countries like Germany and Sweden, which have been relatively open to immigrants. As the refugee surge continues, debate is growing in the European Union about the lack of unified immigration policies and funding for migrant rescue operations.

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