On Saturday, Libyan authorities discovered 66 unexploded mortar shells hidden on a local’s farm on the southern outskirts of the country’s capital, Tripoli.
In a statement, the interim Government of National Unity’s (GNU) Interior Ministry reported that these mortal shells were unearthed at a farm located in the Ghout Bosak area of Jafara, according to local reports.
This development emerged after the Criminal Investigation Department’s Bomb Disposal Unit responded to a report made by a citizen who found a mortar shell on his property. Once on the scene, the bomb disposal team conducted a thorough search of the farmland.
Their diligent investigation led to the discovery of an additional 64 mortar shells of 61mm caliber, along with two larger 120mm caliber mortar shells, and various rounds of ammunition of different calibers. These potentially lethal ordinances were safely removed and transported to a secure location for further examination and eventual safe detonation.
This incident underscores the pervasive issue of unregulated weapons in Libya and stresses the importance of continuous disarmament efforts to maintain peace and stability within the country.
Libya has been plagued by ongoing conflict and political instability following the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that led to the ousting and death of long-time leader Moammar Gaddafi. In the years since, rival factions and militias have vied for power, causing a significant security crisis and leading to the proliferation of weapons throughout the country.
Unexploded ordnances (UXO), such as the mortar shells found in this area are a serious concern in Libya. They pose a significant threat to civilian populations, who can accidentally trigger these devices, leading to severe injury or death.
The disposal of such devices is a complex process that requires specialized teams and equipment to safely handle and neutralize the explosives.
The significant discovery of these 66 unexploded mortar shells underscores the ongoing security challenges in Libya and the urgent need for ongoing demilitarisation and peace-building efforts in the country.
