Libyan security forces in Benghazi have arrested a gang accused of robbing and abducting migrant workers. The gang, comprising a Palestinian and two Bangladeshis, was reportedly targeting foreign labourers in the region.
Benghazi Security Directorate said in a statement on Wednesday that they received multiple complaints from Bangladeshi migrant workers. The victims reported that the gang had stolen their mobile phones and money. According to the authorities, the Palestinian suspect deceived migrant workers by pretending to own a company in need of labourers from various cities in eastern Libya. Once lured, the gang would rob the workers.
Investigations led the police to the vehicle used in the robberies, which was found on a street in the Sidi Khalifa area. The car was placed under surveillance before being intercepted with the Palestinian suspect driving and the two Bangladeshi accomplices inside. All three suspects admitted to their crimes and were taken into custody pending further investigation.
The Benghazi Security Directorate praised the swift action of its officers in apprehending the suspects and highlighted its ongoing commitment to safeguarding the community from criminal activities. The Directorate urged the public, especially migrant workers, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Migrant workers in Libya often face challenging conditions, including exploitation and abuse. Incidents of robbery and fraud against foreign workers are not uncommon, reflecting broader issues related to security and governance in the country. The recent arrests underscore the ongoing challenges that authorities face in maintaining law and order amid Libya’s complex political landscape.