The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior in the Libyan Parliament-designated government, Faraj Aqaim, has issued an order to ban spectators from attending Libyan football league matches. This decision applies to all league divisions.
In a directive to the president of the Libyan Football Federation (LFF), Aqaim stated, “It is strictly prohibited to hold matches with spectators present for the Libyan football league across all its levels.”
The statement emphasised that the LFF would be held legally responsible for any riots caused by football fans, which have negatively impacted the security of the state and the safety of its citizens.
This measure follows violent incidents during the recent match at Martyrs of Benina International Stadium between Al Hilal and Al Akhdar in the 18th round. Additionally, fan disturbances were reported at the match between Al Akhdar and Al Ahli Benghazi at Sheikh Al Shuhada Stadium in Al Bayda.
Aqaim stressed that these events necessitate strict punitive actions against clubs and their supporters in accordance with the law.
Earlier this week, the National Commission for Human Rights in Libya (NCHRL) condemned the arson attack on the Al-Khoms football team bus in Tajoura. The commission held the Tripoli-based government responsible for the incident and demands an investigation.
In a statement, the commission called for the immediate suspension of the Libyan league due to the risks faced by players and fans, citing the failure in managing and organising the league and the need to prevent an unprecedented disaster.
It urged the relevant authorities, particularly the Ministry of Interior, to conduct a thorough and immediate investigation into the incident. It emphasised the importance of apprehending and prosecuting the perpetrators to ensure they are not left unpunished.
The commission also held the Acting Minister of Interior, Emad Al-Trabelsi, and the President of the Libyan Football Federation fully legally accountable.
The commission stated that this act is a punishable crime, destabilises security and stability, undermines the rule of law, and constitutes a flagrant violation of human rights and sports laws and norms.
At least 9 players were injured, some of whom were stabbed with knives, and others were beaten, resulting in injuries of varying severity, ranging from moderate to serious. According to Ahmed Al-Arbad, Executive Director of Al-Khoms Club, the players were brutally attacked by angry fans, and the team bus was also burned in the “Bevi” area in Tajoura.
