Libyan authorities have apprehended four Nigerian nationals in two separate incidents in the regions of Sabha and Bani Walid, on charges related to drug trafficking and the spread of infectious diseases.
The arrests, disclosed by the advocacy group Migrant Rescue Watch on Monday via a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlight ongoing efforts by Libyan authorities to address illegal activities and enforce public health regulations.
In the first case, members of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Sabha conducted a raid on the premises of two Nigerian nationals suspected of drug trafficking.
The raid resulted in the seizure of 1,200 hallucinogenic pills along with other illicit substances. The two individuals were arrested and subsequently handed over to the Sabha Security Directorate for further investigation.
Migrant Rescue Watch confirmed the operation, stating, “CID in Sabha carried out a raid on a reported location and arrested two Nigerian drug traffickers. During a search of the premises, police found 1,200 hallucinogenic pills and other illicit drugs. Both individuals were transferred to the Sabha Security Directorate.”
This latest operation is part of a broader initiative by Libyan authorities to combat drug trafficking, which has been a growing concern in the country.
Sabha, located in southern Libya, is often seen as a hotspot for illicit activities due to its strategic location as a transit point for migrants.
In a separate incident, two Nigerians—one male and one female—were detained in Bani Walid, a town situated south of Tripoli, during a routine health screening.
The two individuals tested positive for infectious diseases, prompting Libyan health officials to take swift action. The Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) in Bani Walid transferred the pair to Tripoli for further processing and eventual repatriation to Nigeria.
Migrant Rescue Watch’s statement on the matter read, “DCIM Bureau in Bani Walid transferred two Nigerian migrants (female and male) who tested positive for infectious diseases to Tripoli for repatriation.”
Bani Walid has long been known as a transit hub for migrants seeking to cross into Europe, and the town has been a focal point for Libyan authorities working to curb illegal migration and enforce public health measures.
These actions come amid growing concerns about the spread of infectious diseases in migrant populations, which has led to heightened health screenings and the detainment of individuals testing positive for such diseases.
Libya has faced significant challenges in managing both illegal migration and the flow of illicit drugs, with its central location in North Africa making it a prime transit route for migrants heading to Europe.
In recent months, authorities have intensified their crackdown on drug trafficking, human smuggling, and other illegal activities, seeking to restore order and safeguard public health.
The two incidents also highlight the broader issue of migration within Libya, where migrants from sub-Saharan Africa often travel through the country in the hopes of reaching European shores.
However, many migrants are subjected to harsh conditions, including detention, exploitation, and exposure to diseases, making the country a key focal point for international organizations working to protect the rights and well-being of migrants.
As authorities continue to enforce stricter measures in both the fight against drug trafficking and the protection of public health, the situation remains fluid, with further arrests and operations likely as Libya continues to address these multifaceted challenges.
