Libya: Four oil workers kidnapped in Murzuq desert July 14

Event

On Saturday, July 14, an unidentified armed group abducted four oil sector workers from a facility 40 km (25 mi) from the Sharara area of the Murzuq desert. According to local sources, three of the kidnapped workers are Libyan while one is a Romanian national. Conflicting reports suggest two Libyan nationals were either recovered or found dead by security forces. As of the evening (local time) of July 14, it is believed that two of the victims remain in captivity. Details regarding the incident are still emerging. Additional kidnapping incidents are possible in Libya in the near-term.

Context

Some factions in Libya use kidnapping for financial gain or to advance political agendas. Libya has been divided into rival governments and factions with their own militias and political parties since the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi. The security situation in Libya remains precarious and there is little to no sign of a return of relative stability in the near-term.

Advice

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas (with appropriate security protocols in place), other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.