Skip to main content
01 Oct 2020 | 05:56 AM UTC

Libya: Security forces make arrests in operations in northwest September 30

Security forces arrest suspected IS members in Nuqat al Khams district and fuel smugglers in Zawiyah district on September 30; further security operations possible in the near term

Warning

Event

The Joint Ministry of Defence carried out a number of arrests during two separate operations in the country's northwest on Wednesday, September 30. Five suspected Islamic State (IS) militants were arrested in Nuqat al Khams district. The suspected terrorist cell was comprised of two Tunisians, two Libyans, and one of unspecified African origin. Four were arrested south of Aljmail and the fifth in an ambush on a highway. Meanwhile, in Zawiyah district, the Joint Ministry of Defence seized six trucks used to smuggle fuel into Tunisia following clashes with an armed group in charge of the fuel smuggling operation.

Further security operations are possible in the northwest in the near term. 

Advice

Those in northwestern areas 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.