The Ministry of Interior under the Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba, announced on Saturday that it had thwarted an attempt to smuggle fuel and prohibited goods through the Ras Ajdir border crossing with Tunisia.
According to a statement posted on the Ministry’s official Facebook page, law enforcement patrols assigned to secure the Ras Ajdir land crossing intercepted several vehicles carrying fuel and banned goods inside passenger cars.
The Ministry confirmed that all necessary legal measures have been taken against the offenders, with further procedures underway in accordance with regulations for such cases.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to combating all forms of smuggling and border crimes to ensure the security and safety of the country and its citizens.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
