Libya: Gunmen kill human rights activist in Benghazi November 10

Event

Hanan al-Barassi, an outspoken critic of human rights abuses in eastern Libya, was shot and killed in her car in Benghazi on Tuesday, November 10. The incident reportedly occurred in one of Benghazi's main commercial streets in broad daylight. Barassi has publicly criticized authorities due to a lack of action over alleged assaults and rapes carried out by armed groups. She also ran a local association for the defense of women's rights. Officials have not commented on her death and it has not been revealed who was responsible for the shooting.

Following a social media outcry over Barassi's death, protests are possible in Benghazi and surrounding areas over the coming days. Any protests are likely to be accompanied by a heightened security presence and clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Those in Benghazi and surrounding areas are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate possible demonstrations over the activist's death, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.