An Italian appeals court in Rome has released Libyan General Osama Najim, who was arrested in Turin on Sunday under an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. The ICC accuses him of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Najim’s arrest followed an Interpol alert and centred on alleged abuses in Mitiga prison, Tripoli. These include war crimes, violence, and the exploitation of detainees. Despite the charges, the court dismissed the arrest, citing procedural errors. Italy’s Justice Minister, Carlo Nordio, was not consulted as required by law.
The ICC has long pursued Najim over allegations of torture, rape, and using migrants in forms of forced labour. His case highlights the grim realities in Libyan detention centres, where abuses are rampant, according to human rights organisations.
Najim reportedly attended a football match in Turin before his arrest. After his release, Italian secret services returned him to Libya. Footage showed him being welcomed by supporters at Mitiga Airport, Tripoli, late on Tuesday.
Italian politicians and human rights groups have expressed outrage. Former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi accused the government of hypocrisy, while opposition parties demanded clarity on the case. Critics argue the release undermines Italy’s commitment to international justice.
Libya’s militias, which manage detention centres and control migration routes, are believed to wield significant influence over European policies. Observers see the release as evidence of these groups’ leverage over Italian authorities.
The ICC and EU have not commented on the release. However, rights groups continue to call for accountability, condemning Italy’s decision as a blow to justice.
