The Director of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights criticized Libya for detaining over 50 Tunisians, including minors, and for seizing vehicles. Both countries are urged to improve border management, as citizens suffer. Libya’s Ministry of Interior vowed to combat smuggling, leading to escalating tensions regarding cross-border trade.
Mustafa Abdel Kabir, the Director of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights, has expressed his concerns regarding the detention of over 50 Tunisians in Libya, including two minors. He reported that Libyan authorities confiscated more than 25 vehicles that had crossed into Libya and stated that these detainees are currently held in a prison in Tripoli.
Abdel Kabir emphasized the need for both Tunisian and Libyan officials to address ongoing issues and the “repeated assaults on Tunisian citizens.” He highlighted a collective failure in managing border crossings and enforcing decisions that would enhance travel for citizens, noting that “ordinary people are paying the price.”
In response, the Ministry of Interior of the Government of National Unity in Libya has reaffirmed its commitment to combat smuggling in all forms. It aims to take deterrent actions to protect the national economy and reinforce public security. Notably, Tunisian authorities had previously sentenced a Libyan national to five years in prison for smuggling 150 kilograms of couscous, inciting public outrage and subsequent detentions of Tunisian fuel smugglers.
In conclusion, the ongoing challenges faced by Tunisian traders and citizens in Libya reflect a broader issue of cross-border relations and security. The calls for cooperation between the two nations highlight the need for effective governance at border crossings. Furthermore, the recent actions aimed at combating smuggling indicate a stringent approach to national security, but they have also led to increased tensions between the two countries.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
