Libya’s Interior Minister of the Parliament-designate government, Major General Essam Abu Zariba, reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to reform, modernization, and justice during a speech marking the 61st anniversary of the founding of the Libyan Police. The ceremony, held in Sebha, celebrated decades of service and sacrifice by security forces dedicated to protecting citizens and ensuring national stability.
Abu Zariba expressed deep gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, and his Deputy, Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, for their ongoing support in empowering the Interior Ministry and ensuring law enforcement efficiency. He emphasized that cooperation with the armed forces remains vital for maintaining security, combating crime, and protecting Libya’s sovereignty.
The minister announced that the ministry had achieved significant progress by the third quarter of 2025, including over 2,700 arrests, the capture of 37,581 irregular migrants, and the seizure of large quantities of narcotics—365 kilograms of hashish, 520 kilograms of pills, and more than 400 litres of alcohol. He also highlighted the training and equipping of more than 600 police and security patrols, the graduation of new police officers, and the activation of the Benghazi Police College.
Abu Zariba renewed calls to resolve the financial arrears issue affecting thousands of police officers who have not received their full salaries for more than five years, stressing that the matter is both a national and humanitarian priority requiring urgent attention.
Looking ahead, the minister unveiled the 2025–2030 development plan, aligning with the armed forces’ strategic vision for enhancing security capabilities. The plan includes upgrading infrastructure, reinforcing technical and administrative departments, and restructuring the ministry into four main sectors: the National Identity and Migration Department, Central Security and Public Safety Directorate, Civil Protection Authority, and Police Sciences Academy.
He affirmed that the Interior Ministry’s modernization drive aims to build a professional and technologically advanced police force capable of ensuring justice and protecting citizens. “We will continue our journey with determination to safeguard Libya’s unity, security, and sovereignty,” he declared.
Abu Zariba concluded by paying tribute to the fallen police officers, describing them as “heroes who gave their lives so others may live in peace,” and praised all police personnel for their courage and dedication on the frontlines of security and law enforcement.
