Libya’s Interior Minister in the Parliament-designate government, Major General Essam Abu Zeriba, held a high-level security meeting in Benghazi to address growing concerns over illegal migration and cross-border smuggling.
The meeting focused on enhancing coordination between the country’s various security agencies and strengthening the role of the Illegal Migration Control Authority. The Interior Minister stressed the importance of reinforcing Libya’s borders as a key component of the ministry’s 2025 strategic security plan.
Officials present discussed operational challenges and proposed measures to boost frontline capacity. This includes better surveillance of desert routes frequently used by smugglers and traffickers, as well as improving information sharing between security departments operating in the border regions.
Major General Abu Zeriba reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to supporting the Illegal Migration Control Authority with resources and training. He noted that Libya’s long and porous borders require increased vigilance and a unified approach to mitigate illegal crossings and human trafficking.
The meeting also highlighted the impact of migration flows on national security and local communities, particularly in southern regions. The minister called for urgent and practical solutions, while urging all departments to work under a unified command to ensure border integrity.
Libya remains a major transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe, often through dangerous desert and maritime routes. Authorities in the east of the country have repeatedly called for more support to manage the issue, citing the pressure on local infrastructure and security.
The 2025 plan is expected to include advanced monitoring systems, expanded patrol operations, and stronger regional cooperation to curb illegal activities along Libya’s borders.
