The Joint Security Room – Al-Butnan announced the arrest of 200 undocumented migrants during a large-scale inspection campaign in Tobruk, eastern Libya. The operation, carried out under the directives of Major General Salah Mahmoud Al-Khweifi, targeted a number of commercial and service establishments across the city.
According to the security authorities, the migrants were found in violation of Libya’s entry and residency regulations. They were transferred to the Tobruk detention center, where legal procedures will be completed.
The Joint Security Room – Al-Butnan reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the orders issued and intensifying security efforts to maintain public order and combat irregular migration.
This crackdown reflects growing efforts by Libyan authorities to tackle the surge of illegal migration through the eastern coastal regions, which remain a major transit route for migrants seeking to cross into Europe.
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.
