Tripoli / North-Western:
The New Libyan Prime Minister, Mr Ahmed Maetig is still facing controversy over his vote count and subsequent appointment although appears to now have the support and acceptance from most GNC Members and the Libyan people, he still has a few days left to form his government. A Judicial Police operation to recover a stolen Police vehicle tracked to the Warshefana District resulted in 5 Policemen killed, a further 5 wounded and 3 Kidnapped when the Criminals opened fire as the Police were negotiating its return.
A shooting incident at Palm City, the upmarket beachside residences in a compound West of Tripoli, left 1 dead assailant and a seriously wounded Security Guard on the evening of 12th. The Gang attempted to enter the compound but were held off by Diplomatic Police and Security. They stole a police car and 3 AK47s and escaped leaving their dead colleague behind. A possible retaliatory attack was made this morning when a number of shots were fired at the Palm City Checkpoint.
It has been reported earlier today (13th May) that the recently Kidnapped Jordanian Ambassador has been released and is on his way back to Amman today
There continues to be a large presence of Rival Militias in and around Tripoli and regular minor clashes occur between the groups.
The western oilfields of Sharara, El Feel, Hamada and Wafa, are due to be reopened following negotiations which successfully convinced protesters to lift blockades of the fields themselves, as well as of the vital pipelines which carry the crude oil to the Zawiya refinery.
Eastern:
The near daily attacks and murders in the Restive city of Benghazi continue, with the Murder of the head of Intelligence Colonel Ibrahim Senussi, who went on Libyan TV two days previously to denounce the recent killings and state that Ansar Al Sharia were largely responsible for attacks in the city, was shot and killed by gunmen who pursued him in his vehicle outside Benghazi Medical Centre.
In a series of subsequent incidents, four security officers were murdered in separate incidents the same day. A high- ranking officer of the 204th Tank Brigade was shot in the stomach while driving his son to school in the Majuri district. Several hours later, two Saiqa Special Forces members were shot in Hay al Salam, closely followed by a third Saiqa member.
A peaceful, pro-government demonstration turned violent when four protesters were killed outside the Venezia Street headquarters of the 17 February Brigade on 09, The 17 February Brigade is technically part of Tripoli’s legitimate armed forces, but Benghazi locals have repeatedly alleged that the brigade is essentially a militia, whose members are associated with Islamist extremists including Ansar al Sharia. The first shots were fired – allegedly by 17 February Brigade members – at a protest outside Benghazi’s Tibesti Hotel, a number of protesters then moved to the brigade’s headquarters to demand the removal of militias from Benghazi. This has led to the Ministry of Justice denouncing the 17 February Brigade and ordering their removal from Benghazi. This may lead to a strengthening of AAS in the Eastern Derna area as ousted 17 Feb members seek a new power Energy update: The western oilfields of Sharara, El Feel, Hamada and Wafa, are due to be reopened following negotiations which successfully convinced protesters to lift blockades of the fields themselves, as well as of the vital pipelines which carry the crude oil to the Zawiya refinery. It is hoped that as production gradually increases, Libyan oil output could increase to 500,000 barrels per day.
Negotiations over the eastern oil ports of Ras Lanuf and Es Sider have stalled, since rebel leader Ibrahim Jadhran announced on national television that he and his supporters would refuse to deal with Prime Minister Ahmed Miitig. However, some attempts are being made to follow through on the government’s promises, including the formation of a commission to investigate allegations of corruption within the oil industry, and the moving of the headquarters of the Petroleum Facilities Guard to the eastern town of Brega
Southern:
The Southern Region being so vast and largely lawless remains a safe haven and possible training ground for Ansar Al Sharia and Al Qaeda with smuggling routes between Neighbouring Countries controlled by the Tribesmen.
Armed assailants stormed a feed and flour factory on 11 May in Sebha, forced the workers to leave, and planted bombs which were then detonated, causing the almost complete destruction of the factory, and leaving three workers dead and two injured. The attack is believed to be motivated by a tribal dispute.
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.
