24 Nov 2018 | 03:13 AM UTC
Libya: IS militants kill five in Tazirbu (Kufra province) Nov. 23
Islamic State (IS) militants kill five in Tazirbu (Kufra province) November 23; Libyan National Army (LNA) reportedly launching counteroffensive
Event
Islamic State (IS) militants launched an offensive on Tazirbu (Kufra district) on Friday, November 23. The IS fighters have reportedly attacked a police station, taking several officers hostage; unconfirmed reports have claimed that the militants have killed at least five people. According to local sources, the Libyan National Army (LNA) is launching a counteroffensive.
Context
On October 29, IS conducted a similar attack against Al-Foqha (Jufra province), motivated by recent LNA attrition and to demonstrate the strength of IS in the region. On July 7, some 20 suspected IS militants attacked Tazirbu, killing two people and kidnapping two others.
IS militants have continued to carry out attacks on security forces and infrastructure in Libya since being driven out of their former stronghold of Sirte in late 2016.
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.
