31 Aug 2020 | 10:11 PM UTC
Libya: Shahara oil field to evacuate following COVID-19 breakout August 29
Shahara oil field (Murzuq district; Fezzan region) reported to be evacuating following COVID-19 breakout on August 29; monitor for developments
Event
The Shahara oil field in Murzuq district (Fezzan region) is reported to be evacuating staff following an outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) after a break-in at the site on Saturday, August 29. Reportedly, the break-in was carried out by members of the Petroleum Facilities Guard which has forced the operator, Ankakus Oil, to cease operations. Mustafa Sanalla, the National Oil Corporation (NOC) chairman, warned that the closure may lead to looting and oil theft at the site.
A heightened security presence is likely at the oil facility in the immediate term, along with disruptions to operations.
Context
Shahara oil field is the largest oil field in Libya and is capable of producing more than 300,000 barrels of light crude oil per day.
Advice
Those in the region are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
