The National Commission for Human Rights in Libya (NCHRL) expressed deep concern that fans of Al-Ittihad Sports Club were exposed to direct gunfire. It claimed that the armed individuals are affiliated with a security entity under the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Fans of the Al-Ittihad Sports Club were targeted by armed individuals, while on their way to the Great Manmade River Stadium (GMR) in Tripoli on Friday.
In a statement, the NCHRL condemned these inhumane practices, deeming them severe violations of human rights, undermining the rule of law, and constituting crimes punishable under Libyan and international humanitarian law.
The responsibility for these incidents was squarely placed on the acting Minister of Interior and the GNU, as well as the President of the Libyan Football Federation (LFF)
The NCHRL called for an immediate halt to the Libyan league due to the threats faced by sports fans and the failure of the Libyan Football Federation in managing the league. The NCHRL wants to ensure the safety of the fans of the Libyan sports community.
The NCHRL urged an investigation into the armed attack on the fans, holding the officials accountable and ensuring their prosecution. It emphasised the importance of preventing them from escaping justice for this crime.
In October, the LFF announced the return of spectators to attend Premier League matches, ending a 12-year ban due to the country’s unstable security situation.
In an official statement, the LFF stated that the board of directors had decided to allow spectators to attend matches this season.
The decision followed several meetings with the relevant security agencies, to establish the necessary security and organisational arrangements for fans.
The statement explained that this process “will be carried out according to the mechanisms established by these specialised security agencies, and these arrangements have reached their final stages.”
The statement also noted that “the regulations applicable to sports clubs whose fans engage in unsportsmanlike behaviour, will be enforced. Clubs will have to deny access to fans of any team that violates the spirit of sportsmanship, and fair competition.”