Libya: Militia forces mobilize west of Janzour October 18

Event

Local sources indicate that at around 20:00 (local time) on Sunday, October 18, around 50 vehicles of the 55 Battalion militia group mobilized in their Warshefana stronghold west of Janzour. The mobilization is reported to be in response to an arrest warrant issued by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) against their commander Muammar Al-Dawi. Al-Dawi is accused of being involved in fuel smuggling, kidnapping, enforced disappearances, and the confiscation of private property by force. The MoI is being supported by 301 Battalion, based at Hamza Camp, and 166 Battalion, based in the Warshefana /Zahra area.

Clashes between rival forces in Warshefana and surrounding areas are possible over the coming days.

Context

The arrest warrant for Al-Dawi comes after the arrest of Abdulrahman Al-Milad (also known as Bija) who was arrested by the MoI on Wednesday, October 14, for human rights abuses as well as human and fuel smuggling.

Advice

Those in Janzour and surrounding areas are advised to monitor local media sources for further updates on the situation 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.