Patrol discovers VBIED near Ras Lanuf (Sirte district) November 18

Event

Reports indicate that an alleged vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) was discovered in a valley to the south of Ras Lanuf (Sirte district) on Wednesday, November 18. The vehicle was recovered by a reconnaissance patrol from the Libyan National Army (LNA)- aligned 128 Brigade. Videography of the vehicle posted by media sites appears to show multiple artillery shells wired together as a singular device.

Further security operations are to be expected in the region over the near term.  

Context

The timing of the incident is notable, given the recent conference in nearby Brega on the restructuring of the Petroleum Facilities Guard. The device was discovered close to numerous viable targets, most of which are related to the oil and gas industry.

Advice

Those in the aforementioned area are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate further associated security operations, and heed any directives issued by local authorities.

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.