On Monday, a group of locals from Shwerif shut down the Man Made River, effectively closing down water supplies to the majority of Libya.
This was done in protest to locals from Shwerif being arrested by local authorities as part of an investigation into explosions that have taken place within the region.
Local authorities in southern Libya have been investigating the explosions that have recently rocked the region after landmines were planted on main roads.
Following a recent incident on the outskirts of Shwerif during which several landmines exploded, the Libyan National Army (LNA) opened an investigation to find those responsible.
According to sources, the culprits turned out to be affiliated with Ali Kana, the former head of the Southern Military Region for the Government of National Accord (GNA).
To thwart the possibility of repeat attacks, the authorities arrested all affiliates of the armed group.
However, local tribes in Shwerif were outraged that their sons had been arrested in this crackdown.
According to reports, representatives of the tribes approached local authorities, claiming their sons were not involved in the attacks and demanding their release.
The authorities assured them their sons were being treated respectfully, but would not be released until the investigation had concluded and proven their innocence.
In protest, a group from Shwerif turned off the water supplies from the Man Made River.
Local leaders in Shwerif denounced the move, distancing themselves from the act calling it an “independent act that does not represent the town”.
Authorities in the area are currently in talks with local leaders to quickly mediate efforts and put an end to the water blockade.