A report by the UN Panel of Experts, released on Monday, has revealed extensive diesel smuggling operations in Libya.
According to the report, armed groups have significantly increased their revenues from smuggling diesel, exploiting the General Electricity Company of Libya (GECOL) in Tripoli. The report also noted their influence over the National Oil Corporation (NOC) and Brega Petroleum Marketing Company.
The findings were part of the panel’s final report, dated 6 December 2024, which examines Libya’s political, security, economic, and humanitarian situation. It details the impact of armed groups on state institutions, human rights violations, fuel and human trafficking, and member states’ compliance with the arms embargo on Libya.
The report highlighted systematic issues in fuel demand estimation and supply chain management, which have facilitated the import of surplus diesel into Libya. This excess fuel is then illegally exported by armed groups, generating substantial profits.
Furthermore, the report pointed out that the NOC underwent internal restructuring, making it easier for armed groups to access lucrative service agreements.
In a significant development, Libya’s first private oil company, under an agreement approved by the Government of National Unity, has exported crude oil worth approximately $460 million since May 2024.
The revelations underscore the challenges Libya faces in controlling fuel smuggling and maintaining the integrity of its energy sector. The UN has called for stricter enforcement of regulations to curb illegal fuel exports and reduce the influence of armed groups over state institutions.
