Mutual accusations emerge in Libya after arrest of suspected group — Asharq Al-Awsat
In Libya, the detention in Tripoli of a group suspected by the authorities of sabotage involving drones has sparked mutual accusations between rival political camps. On September 6, the Government of National Unity announced the arrest of individuals accused of attacks on oil storage facilities and a power plant in Tripoli and Zawiya, Asharq Al-Awsat reports.
Details of the investigation into five Libyans and several foreigners have not been made public since then. The Government of National Unity’s Ministry of Defense also said it had prevented other alleged plans to attack the Tripoli South Power Plant, critical infrastructure facilities, as well as political, security and military figures.
Accusations against Haftar’s forces
Libyan activist Ahmed al-Zarrouk said the Tariq bin Ziyad Brigade, linked to the Libyan National Army, was allegedly involved in the group’s activities. He claimed that Saddam Haftar, deputy commander-in-chief of the Libyan National Army, was behind the group. The activist said the group included one Spanish national and four Libyans.
Allibiya TV, considered close to Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, circulated this version and, citing unnamed sources, reported that Tripoli authorities had allegedly released the Spanish suspect under pressure from Saddam Haftar.
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Denials and appeal to the ICC
A source close to the Libyan National Army denied these claims. According to the source, certain forces are interested in preserving the country’s division, while military and security leaders in Benghazi and Tripoli are publicly speaking about the need to end it.
On September 19, Mohamed al-Menfi, head of Libya’s Presidential Council, said the country had officially appealed to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court for technical, technological and legal assistance to strengthen the investigation. The request was submitted through diplomatic channels via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Defense.
The Government of National Unity’s Ministry of Defense stressed that the case is under the jurisdiction of the prosecutor’s office and denied any negotiations with other parties regarding the case. The ministry said the investigation was continuing to identify all those involved in the alleged sabotage group and structures linked to it.
