Libya’s National Safety Authority has announced the discovery of an unexploded surface-to-air missile on the Airport Road in Tripoli, raising fresh concerns over the continued presence of war remnants in urban areas.
In a statement, the authority said the missile, part of an air defence system, weighed more than one tonne and measured approximately four metres in length. It was found intact and had not detonated, posing a potential threat to public safety. The device was located near a fuel station along the busy road.
The authority explained that its specialised explosives and ordnance disposal team was immediately dispatched after receiving a report from Brigade 111 regarding suspected war remnants in the area. Upon inspection, the team confirmed that the object was a surface-to-air missile.
Officials said the missile was handled in line with approved technical procedures. It was safely removed from the site using a recovery vehicle operated by the Tripoli branch, in preparation for further technical steps required to neutralise the threat.
The discovery highlights the ongoing risks posed by unexploded ordnance across Libya, particularly in densely populated areas. Years of conflict have left behind significant quantities of weapons and munitions, many of which remain unsecured.
The authority reaffirmed its full readiness to respond to such incidents, stressing its commitment to protecting civilians and public property. It also urged residents to report any suspicious objects and avoid direct contact with them.
No casualties or damage were reported in connection with the incident.
The presence of unexploded munitions continues to pose a serious challenge for authorities, as efforts to stabilise the country and restore normal life remain ongoing amid political and security fragility.