The European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) and Libya’s Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) have completed a joint training program aimed at strengthening Libya’s ability to combat migrant smuggling, human trafficking, and transnational organized crime.
The specialized training was held at the CID Training Institute in Tripoli and brought together approximately 35 investigators and law enforcement specialists from Benghazi, Sabha, Tobruk, and Tripoli. The initiative forms part of ongoing cooperation between Libyan authorities and the European Union to enhance border security, strengthen criminal investigations, and improve coordination in addressing cross-border threats.
The five-day program focused on the investigation of crimes linked to irregular migration, human trafficking, and organized criminal networks operating across multiple countries. Participants received practical instruction on modern investigative methods, intelligence gathering, and mechanisms for tracking criminal organizations involved in smuggling operations that extend beyond Libya’s borders.
A central objective of the training was to improve investigators’ understanding of international police cooperation. Participants were introduced to a range of tools and procedures used by law enforcement agencies worldwide to exchange information, coordinate investigations, and pursue criminal networks operating across different jurisdictions.
Major General Mahmoud Ashour, Head of Libya’s Criminal Investigation Directorate, praised the growing cooperation between the CID and EUBAM Libya. He noted that previous training programs had helped improve investigative capabilities and strengthen efforts to combat organized crime and irregular migration. He expressed appreciation for the continued support provided through the partnership and emphasized the importance of maintaining this level of cooperation in the future.
Frederik Petersen, Head of EUBAM Libya, described the program as part of a broader effort to strengthen Libya’s law enforcement institutions and improve their ability to address increasingly complex security challenges. He noted that additional specialized training initiatives are planned in the coming months, including courses focused on open-source intelligence and digital investigations.
The program also featured contributions from police liaison officers and security experts from Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom, who shared their experiences and expertise with Libyan participants.
