The Libyan Customs Authority has revealed that it detected the smuggling of approximately $1.04 billion abroad through fraudulent import operations involving several companies that withdrew foreign currency without supplying any goods. The full case file has been referred to the Office of the Attorney General for legal action.
Colonel Fahmi Al-Maqouri, spokesperson for the Customs Authority, clarified the details in response to claims made by a television channel regarding letters of credit issued to importing companies and alleged involvement by customs officers. He stressed that customs officials perform their duties strictly in line with current legislation and approved regulatory procedures, with the aim of protecting public funds and preventing violations.
Al-Maqouri said the media content circulating includes inaccurate information that does not reflect the reality of the authority’s work. He rejected accusations that customs officials were complicit in the smuggling of foreign currency through manipulated letters of credit, stressing that such allegations are baseless.
He noted that the Customs Authority maintains continuous coordination with the Attorney General’s Office on all matters related to letters of credit and foreign currency smuggling cases, given that such crimes represent a direct threat to Libya’s economic and national security.
Al-Maqouri highlighted past violations uncovered by customs, including a $1.3 million letter of credit approved to import livestock ahead of Eid al-Adha to ease market pressure. Despite receiving the funds, the company failed to bring in a single shipment. He added that internationally accredited inspection firms work alongside customs to verify procedures and ensure compliance throughout import operations.