Eyewitnesses reported that a young man, identified as Ali Al-Rbeeb, was shot and killed in the Al-Harsha area of Al-Zawiya city after being targeted by a vehicle belonging to the Office of the Security Threats Combating Apparatus in Al-Zawiya.
According to local residents, Al-Rbeeb had recently participated in a protest, during which demonstrators set tires ablaze to block the coastal road in Al-Zawiya. The protest came in response to the release of Mohamed Bahroun, known as “Al-Far” (The Rat), who serves as the Deputy Head of the Security Threats Combating Apparatus and Commander of the First Support Force in Al-Zawiya.
Tensions have been rising in Al-Zawiya as locals express anger over what they perceive as impunity for armed groups. The controversial release of Bahroun—long accused by activists and some officials of unlawful activity—sparked widespread demonstrations, highlighting growing frustration over militia control and the absence of accountability.
Human rights advocates are calling for an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, emphasizing the urgent need for reform within Libya’s fragmented security apparatus.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
