Libya: Authorities in Sirte extend nightly 20:00-07:00 curfew through April 15 due to COVID-19 activity /update 26

Event

Local authorities in Sirte have extended a series of restrictions through at least April 15 as part of their efforts to combat COVID-19. The city's existing nightly curfew has been shortened by three hours to run 20:00-07:00; curfew previously ran 17:00-07:00. The new curfew hours will remain in effect through April 15. Authorities have also suspended in-person classes at schools and universities. A number of nonessential businesses will also remain closed for the duration of the measures, including hair salons, gyms, cafes, and car dealerships.

Authorities in eastern Libya previously imposed a nightly 19:00-07:00 curfew through April 2; it remains unclear if the measures have been extended. The directive requires nonessential shops to remain closed during curfew hours.

Elsewhere in Libya, authorities will likely maintain varying levels of restrictions through at least April 30. Nonetheless, officials have eased some measures in recent weeks. Land, air, and sea borders in eastern Libya - the area under the control of Libyan National Army (LNA) leader Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar - remain open. Travelers to Benghazi and other areas in eastern Libya under LNA control must provide proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours before travel.

Authorities in Tripoli have regularly imposed complete lockdowns of varying durations - typically four to seven days - in the capital city due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. Further similar measures could be imposed in the coming days and weeks, depending on disease activity. Authorities have also regularly ordered the closure of stores, except those that provide essential goods and services. When no lockdown is in effect, officials have periodically imposed a nightly 21:00-06:00 curfew during the week, with a 24-hour curfew on Fridays and Saturdays. Individuals and businesses that violate the edict may face fines.

Authorities have also regularly banned travel between cities in western Libya, the use of public transportation, and social gatherings. Nevertheless, select commercial flights are operating between Mitiga International Airport (MJI) and Istanbul, Turkey.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Note, that in many areas restrictions are not strictly enforced or adhered to.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government of National Accord Official Facebook Page (Arabic)