The Libyan Joint Operations Force (JOF) has revealed details of a large-scale security operation targeting drug trafficking in the Qushi area of Misrata, resulting in the arrest of 77 suspects, including eight foreign nationals.
The operation, carried out on 8 March and declassified this week, was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, JOF raided multiple sites and apprehended 54 individuals, among them four foreigners. In the second phase, 23 more suspects were detained, also including four foreigners. All detainees have been referred to the Public Prosecutor for legal proceedings.
According to the official statement released on Thursday, the operation targeted 15 known drug trafficking dens in the area. Authorities described the campaign as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised criminal networks operating within Libyan cities.
So far, 38 of the accused have been convicted and received prison sentences ranging from six months to 16 years. Legal proceedings are ongoing for the remaining individuals, and security forces continue to pursue other suspects who remain at large.
The Joint Operations Force reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug trafficking and organised crime, stressing that such operations will continue in cooperation with judicial authorities to uphold public safety and the rule of law.
The crackdown comes amid increasing concerns over the spread of narcotics and illicit substances in urban centres across Libya, where instability and weak border control have facilitated the growth of criminal enterprises.
In a related operation in Benghazi, security forces also dismantled a den involved in the sale of alcohol and narcotics, signalling a broader national campaign against substance abuse and its associated criminal networks.
