Mustafa Abdel Kabir criticizes the detention of over 50 Tunisians in Libya, including minors. He notes that Libyan authorities confiscated 25 vehicles and calls for action to address the issue. The Tunisian Ministry of Interior pledges to combat smuggling, following tensions related to cross-border trade.
Mustafa Abdel Kabir, the Director of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights, has condemned the ongoing detention of over 50 Tunisians in Libya, including two minors. He highlighted that Libyan authorities confiscated more than 25 vehicles belonging to Tunisian traders, which have since been transported into Libya. The detainees are reportedly being held in a Tripoli prison, prompting calls for action from both Tunisian and Libyan officials to resolve the matter and address the “repeated assaults on Tunisian citizens.”
Abdel Kabir emphasized the “shared failure” in managing border crossings and the ineffective implementation of travel facilitation measures, stating that “ordinary people are paying the price” for these shortcomings. His remarks indicate the significant impact on citizens amidst rising tensions between the two nations. Meanwhile, the Government of National Unity’s Ministry of Interior reaffirms its dedication to combating smuggling in all its forms while enhancing public safety and stabilizing the national economy.
The tightening of anti-smuggling measures follows a case where a Libyan national received a five-year prison sentence for smuggling 150 kilograms of couscous, an incident that incited public outrage and led to increased detentions of Tunisian fuel smugglers. These developments showcase escalating concerns regarding cross-border trade and smuggling activities, as reported by Tunisian media.
The ongoing situation regarding the detention of Tunisians in Libya and smuggling activities has raised significant concerns among both nations. Mustafa Abdel Kabir’s criticisms highlight the urgent need for a resolution to the border management issues and the protection of citizens’ rights. Moreover, the commitment of the Libyan Ministry of Interior to strengthen efforts against smuggling indicates a persistent effort to address these challenges in order to ensure economic stability and public safety.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
