Authorities in Libya have launched an urgent crackdown on soaring tomato prices in Benghazi, as officials warn of strict legal action against traders manipulating the market.
Tawfiq Al-Werfali, head of the Municipal Guard branch in Benghazi, said the agency acted immediately after a sharp and unprecedented rise in tomato prices triggered widespread public frustration. Speaking to Libya Alhadath TV, he stressed that authorities would not tolerate exploitation or price manipulation.
A field task force was formed under his direct supervision and deployed to the wholesale market in the Sidi Khalifa area. Officials also extended inspections to the oasis city of Jalu, a key supplier of tomatoes. Investigations revealed significant price discrepancies between farms, traders and wholesale markets, indicating that some intermediaries were inflating prices.
The Municipal Guard responded by enforcing strict market controls. Patrols have been deployed across Benghazi to monitor compliance, while the local economy and trade authority issued an official price list covering vegetables. Shops have been ordered to clearly display prices to ensure transparency for consumers.
Al-Werfali confirmed that legal action is already under way against around 100 traders suspected of violations. Fines range from 5,000 to 20,000 Libyan dinars, depending on the severity of the offence, with cases to be referred to the public prosecution.
He noted that while production challenges persist due to limited support for farmers, the surge to 15 dinars per kilogram cannot be justified. Rising costs of agricultural inputs continue to impact farmers, but authorities insist that excessive profit margins are unacceptable.
The official urged citizens to adhere to announced prices and report violations, while calling on media outlets to support public awareness efforts.
The crackdown reflects growing pressure on Libyan authorities to stabilise food prices and protect consumers, amid broader economic challenges affecting supply chains and agricultural output.