The US-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) is calling for an investigation into the lethal force used by armed groups in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, against protesters, and the subsequent apparent disappearance of some of them.
Libyans took to the streets in late August to protest against corruption, and to demand better public services.
Based on witness testimonies and reviews of photographs and videos, HRW says at least 24 protesters were arbitrarily detained and in some cases tortured by armed groups which are linked to the interior ministry.
The rights organisation says the groups include some of the Libyan capital’s biggest factions – like the Nawasi brigade, and the Special Deterrence Force.
Some people have since been released from detention.
The protests were triggered by persistent electricity cuts and the deterioration of other public services, as well as alleged corruption.
Weapons like machine guns were used to disperse the crowds – one person is known to have died.
At the time, Minister of Interior Fathi Bashagha condemned the violent clampdown and was later suspended by the prime minister pending an investigation.
He resumed his post earlier this month, and it is not clear what the conclusions of the inquiry were.
HRW is calling for an independent investigation into the abuses to be carried out by Tripoli’s General Prosecutor’s Office.
Latest Stories
-
Samson’s Take: Journalists, block the pretentious idiots
4 mins -
Real Madrid crowned LaLiga champions after Barcelona’s defeat at Girona
37 mins -
Daniel Otting Awuah elected SRC President of Ghana School of Law
2 hours -
Lawrence Ati-Zigi signs St. Gallen contract extension
2 hours -
We should be careful not to destroy our institutions without just cause – Serebour Quaicoe
2 hours -
Cecilia Dapaah’s case: EOCO hasn’t requested for FBI report – Office of the Special Prosecutor
4 hours -
Andre Ayew scores 5th league goal as Le Havre beat Strasbourg
4 hours -
Ejisu by-election: NPP didn’t sanction money distribution to voters – Richard Ahiagbah
4 hours -
Ghana Health Service opens vacancies for 204 doctors, 25 dentists
4 hours -
Domestic tourism on the rebound with 1.4m visits to attraction sites in 2023 – GTA
5 hours -
Government working hard to complete Tema General Hospital project – Dr Okoe Boye
5 hours -
Ipswich Town seal Premier League promotion after 22 years absence
5 hours -
Accord journalists the respect due them – Opare Gyan
5 hours -
EPL: Arsenal beat Bournemouth to go four points clear of Man City
5 hours -
Cecilia Dapaah’s case: What’s happening now is a clear indication of cover-up – Amaliba
5 hours