The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed deep concern over the enforced disappearance of engineer Mohamed Al-Gomati, the brother of political activist Hossam Al-Gomati. The mission called on authorities to investigate the case and reveal his whereabouts.
In a statement, UNSMIL reminded all parties of their obligation to uphold the rule of law and respect human rights. It also emphasised that those responsible for violations must be held accountable.
The mission welcomed the recent release of several detainees, including individuals referenced in its previous statement on arbitrary arrests across Libya. However, it stressed that hundreds remain in arbitrary detention and urged their immediate release.
Mohamed Al-Gomati, an oil engineer, was arrested in Tripoli on Wednesday by an unidentified security force. His brother, Hossam Al-Gomati, announced the incident, stating that the reasons for Mohamed’s detention remained unclear.
According to Hossam, armed individuals raided his brother’s home under false pretenses, searching his electronic devices for any evidence against him. He asserted that Mohamed had no political affiliations and was targeted solely due to their family connection.
“Mohamed is suffering from a serious illness and requires ongoing medical treatment. His condition makes it difficult for his captors to fabricate charges,” Hossam said.
He also accused authorities of using intimidation tactics to silence dissent, vowing not to be deterred. Al-Gomati, a vocal critic of Libya’s ruling elite and armed groups, frequently exposes government corruption and highlights cases linked to the International Criminal Court. He believes his brother’s arrest is part of a broader campaign to suppress activists.
