The Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights has urged the government to intervene for the release of 120 Tunisian citizens detained in Libya, many facing minor charges. Most detainees entered Libya legally and include individuals with no ties to extremism. The organization calls for collaboration with Libyan authorities to secure their release, noting ongoing concerns for the welfare of Tunisian women and children held in Libya.
A Tunisian human rights organization has called on the government to facilitate the release of 120 Tunisian citizens currently held in Libyan prisons. Mustafa Abdel Kabir, the head of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights, reported that many of the detainees are facing what he termed “minor or fabricated charges,” with imprisonment terms ranging from one to five years. Most of these individuals were accused due to work-related disagreements, missing medical credentials, or alleged violations of customs regulations. Notably, all detainees had entered Libya lawfully, either as workers, traders, or visitors.
Abdel Kabir firmly rejected any association between those detained and extremist activities, affirming that they are “ordinary citizens.” The majority of the detained population consists of young adults aged between 22 and 30 years, with a smaller group aged between 45 and 55. He has urged Tunisian authorities to work together with their Libyan counterparts to secure these individuals’ release, indicating that many have already served a significant portion of their sentences. Additionally, he highlighted the situation of 32 Tunisian women and children, linked to individuals associated with the Islamic State group, who remain unreturned from Libya.
The call for the release of Tunisian nationals from Libyan prisons comes at a time when many Tunisians find themselves in precarious legal situations abroad, particularly in Libya, which has seen political and social upheaval in recent years. The Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights has taken an active role in advocating for the rights of these individuals, emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of their detention, particularly for those facing minor charges. The situation of those connected to extremist groups adds another layer of complexity, as it raises issues surrounding security and the repatriation of vulnerable populations such as women and children.
In summary, the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights is advocating for the release of 120 Tunisian citizens detained in Libya, highlighting the dubious nature of the charges against them. The organization urges cooperation between Tunisian and Libyan authorities to expedite their release, as many have served a substantial part of their sentences. Furthermore, the plight of Tunisian women and children associated with the Islamic State group remains a critical concern that requires attention and action on both sides of the border.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
