Libyan security forces have uncovered shocking crimes against migrants following the arrest of four human traffickers in the southern town of Zalla. The Criminal Investigations Unit of the Jufra Security Directorate revealed the results of an extensive probe into the suspects’ activities.
According to the official report, the traffickers were involved in the brutal trade of migrants, selling them, subjecting them to extreme violence, and torturing them to extort ransom payments from their families. Authorities seized financial transactions linked to these activities, with reports indicating that traffickers demanded up to $10,000 per migrant.
The investigation further exposed horrific acts of abuse, including sexual exploitation, starvation, and extreme physical torture, such as melting plastic pipes onto victims’ backs. The traffickers also admitted to killing some migrants and burying their bodies in the desert.
Following the arrests, Libyan authorities demolished the hideouts used as holding facilities for migrants before they were sold to other human traffickers across the country.
The crackdown was carried out by a security unit from the Joint Security Committee (Law Enforcement). The operation led to the rescue of 82 irregular migrants from Ethiopia and Eritrea, who were being held captive and tortured.
The four arrested traffickers include two Libyan nationals, one Ethiopian, and one Sudanese. Authorities stated that their apprehension followed extensive intelligence-gathering operations to locate and dismantle the human trafficking network in Zalla.
Libya remains a key transit point for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. However, criminal networks exploit their desperation, subjecting them to inhumane treatment. The latest arrests highlight ongoing efforts by Libyan authorities to combat human trafficking and improve security in the region.
