| North Western Libya: There has been a spike in kidnappings in the Tripoli area over this last reporting period, a bank official in Salahadeen, a newspaper editor in Al-Watan newspaper who had been vocal against the militias and two employees of biotech in Twesha have all been kidnapped. This last event provoked a strong backlash from members of the Suq al Juma and Tajoura militiamen who blocked off Seka road in the city centre with burning tyres and small arms fire could be heard in the vicinity. These militiamen are enveloped in a tit for tat saga with the Warshfana tribe and several members of each have been kidnapped in recent weeks. It is anticipated that this could escalate to more armed clashes in the Tajoura and South west Janzour areas. In the rest of the City fuel stations had high queues for several days, when supplies to here became low. There is a renewed risk of power outages as the Ruwais power station has been threatened with closure by local protestors. Flights from major airlines are still on temporary hold until the situation has been re-evaluated by the individual airlines. The airport road outside the MOI was partially closed this week, as a show of force by the Zintani militia who still control most of the Tripoli International Airport.
Eastern Libya: In Benghazi has again seen a number of murders this past week. A renowned poet from the revolution days and a senior officer for the local security directorate were both shot and killed. In addition another Egyptian christian was also killed in the Gwarsha district, which re-affirms that foreign nationals are still being actively targeted in this area. Two bombs in Benghazi were detonated in the last few days, one destroying a cigarette kiosk the other a car showroom where several vehicles were destroyed, both incidents are being blamed on local Salafist groups. After the recent fight between opposing forces in the city of Ajdabiya, it has been reported that Jadhrans Militia are currently heading west to reinforce their position on the Barqa border at Wadi Al Ahmar. This would indicate Jadhran is still opposed to relinquishing his control over the Oil terminals in the east and a deal is still not forth coming. Southern Libya: The airport at Sebha remains closed due to security concerns, with local tribes fighting over territory, it has been closed for the past 3 months. In the nearby town of Brak Al-Shatti a 200 year old tomb of a Sufi teacher was desecrated by an unknown group, although local residents believe it was the work of Salafists. The Regions’ remote location and general lawlessness could potentially escalate criminal activity and further hinder any progress for the populace. SNE assesses that travel to Libya is still possible but advises that stringent security and travel management plans are in place. An itinerary specific pre-travel risk assessment including mitigation measures are recommended. Travel to desert and border areas, between cities and major urban centres including Benghazi and many other hot spots in the eastern region of the country will require additional security support. In-country personnel should be confident in their evacuation procedures and crisis management plans. Crime remains one of the biggest risks to foreign personnel operating on the ground and the risk is assessed to be at its highest in outlying areas of the cities, particularly after last light when travel is not recommended. SNE can assist clients with pre entry risk assessments, on the ground physical support, safe discreet transportation, accommodation/business centre and risk management services throughout the region with villas and offices in both Tripoli & Benghazi. |
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