On Thursday, the US Embassy in Libya condemned the detention of Mohamed Baio, the Head of the Libyan Media Office. The embassy tweeted that it denounces the “unlawful” detention of Baio, calling for his immediate release.
It reaffirmed American support for the rule of law, protection of journalists, and the freedom of expression for all Libyans.
On 20 October, Baio was arrested alongside his two sons, who were freed by the kidnappers yesterday. Libya’s Attorney General denied submitting any arrest warrant for Baio.
Earlier today, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) also condemned the detention of Baio, calling for his immediate and unconditional release. It warned that this latest round of “arbitrary arrests” highlights the personal risks journalists are taking to promote the right to freedom of expression in Libya.