Four members of the Libyan National Army (LNA) were killed after a landmine struck their vehicle during a military mission in southern Libya, according to a military source.
The incident occurred as the soldiers from the 604th Infantry Brigade, affiliated with the LNA General Command, were returning to their base in Sirte following an operation to pursue groups described as “terrorist.” The source said the explosive device detonated beneath the vehicle, killing all personnel on board.
The deadly blast comes only days after the General Command announced the release of several of its personnel who had been abducted during the January 31 attack on the Tumu border crossing and other nearby positions. At the time, the LNA’s War Information Division said the rescue was carried out through what it described as a “precise qualitative operation” along Libya’s southern border, confirming the safe return of the freed members to their units.
Earlier, the General Command reported that the assault on the Tumu crossing and additional border points resulted in the deaths of three of its members and left others wounded. The attack also led to the capture of several personnel while they were engaged in border protection duties and efforts to combat smuggling and organized crime.
Southern Libya continues to witness intermittent security incidents, particularly in remote desert areas where armed groups and smuggling networks remain active. Military officials have repeatedly warned about the persistent threat posed by landmines and improvised explosive devices in former conflict zones across the country.
The latest casualties underscore ongoing security challenges facing forces operating in Libya’s vast southern regions, despite intensified military patrols and counter-terror operations.