A Tunisian rights group has called for the release of 120 Tunisian citizens imprisoned in Libya, citing minor or fabricated charges. Mustafa Abdel Kabir emphasized that the detainees, arrested over work-related issues and legal entry, should be returned home, with many having served half their sentences. Additionally, concerns were raised over 32 women and children related to individuals affiliated with the Islamic State who remain in Libyan custody.
A Tunisian human rights organization has made a formal appeal to the authorities 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, has reported that many detainees contend with “minor or fabricated charges,” with prison terms lasting anywhere from one to five years.
Abdel Kabir noted that the majority of these individuals were apprehended stemming from work-related disputes, lack of medical documentation, or alleged customs infractions. Importantly, he stressed that these individuals had initially entered Libya through legal means, whether as workers, traders, or visitors.
Furthermore, Abdel Kabir emphasized the lack of any associations between the detainees and extremist activities, referring to them as “ordinary citizens.” He pointed out that most detainees fall within the age range of 22 to 30 years, with a subset aged between 45 to 55 years old.
In his appeal, he urged Tunisian officials to engage collaboratively with their Libyan counterparts to secure the release of these individuals, particularly as many have already completed half of their respective sentences. Additionally, he raised concerns regarding 32 Tunisian women and children, who are reportedly family members of individuals linked to the Islamic State group and are still held in Libya without repatriation efforts.
The situation concerning the detention of Tunisian citizens in Libya highlights ongoing legal and humanitarian issues related to international migration and human rights. Many Tunisian nationals seek work in Libya due to economic difficulties in Tunisia, often entering the country legally. However, upon facing various charges, these individuals can find themselves entangled in the Libyan justice system, which can sometimes impose harsh penalties that reportedly stem from minor infractions. There is also a growing concern around the treatment of family members of individuals associated with extremist groups, complicating repatriation efforts.
In conclusion, the urgent call by the Tunisian human rights group reflects pressing concerns regarding the treatment of Tunisian citizens detained in Libya under dubious charges. The head of the Observatory has highlighted the need for governmental cooperation to ensure justice and humanitarian considerations are prioritized. The plight of the detained individuals, including family members of those alleged to be linked to terrorist groups, underscores the complexities surrounding migration rights and international legal frameworks.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
