Mustafa Abdel Kabir, of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights, criticized the detention of over 50 Tunisians in Libya and confiscation of their vehicles. He called for better management of borders by both countries. Meanwhile, Libya’s Ministry of Interior pledged to combat smuggling, influencing ongoing anti-smuggling measures between Tunisia and Libya.
Mustafa Abdel Kabir, the Director of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights, has condemned the ongoing detention of over 50 Tunisian nationals, including two minors, in Libya. Current reports indicate that these individuals are being held in a prison located in Tripoli, and that Libyan authorities have confiscated more than 25 vehicles from Tunisian traders.
In his statement, Abdel Kabir urged both Tunisian and Libyan authorities to effectively address the systemic issues leading to these detentions, which he describes as “repeated assaults on Tunisian citizens.” He emphasized the need for improved management of border crossings that would facilitate travel for people, stating that “ordinary people are paying the price” of these failures.
In response to the situation, the Ministry of Interior from Libya’s Government of National Unity has committed to intensifying efforts against all forms of smuggling, stating that they will implement stringent measures to safeguard the national economy and bolster public security.
This crackdown on smuggling is not without controversy; Tunisian authorities previously sentenced a Libyan citizen to five years imprisonment for illegally transporting 150 kilograms of couscous. This case sparked public outrage, leading to a spike in detentions of Tunisian fuel smugglers and stricter anti-smuggling regulations, which local media termed attempts to curb cross-border trade.
The situation reflects critical tensions between Tunisia and Libya regarding border control and the treatment of citizens engaged in trade. The ongoing detentions, along with seizures of property, highlight serious challenges in bilateral relations. As both governments commit to addressing smuggling, the socioeconomic implications for ordinary citizens continue to be a focal concern.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
