A Tripoli criminal court has sentenced seven individuals to prison for their role in an armed group that coerced oil field workers, causing economic losses exceeding $52 billion. Six defendants received 18-year sentences; one received 15 years. All were stripped of civil rights as part of the ruling.
A criminal court in Tripoli has imposed prison sentences on seven individuals associated with an armed group that engaged in activities detrimental to national security and the economy. This was confirmed by a Sunday statement from Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour’s office. The group coerced oil field workers, leading to the shutdown of production sites, although the specific name of the group and the identities of the defendants were not disclosed.
The court sentenced six of the accused to 18 years in prison, while the seventh received a 15-year sentence. Additionally, all individuals involved have been permanently deprived of their civil rights. The investigation by the Attorney General revealed the group’s intentions to undermine the government’s constitutional order and disrupt public administration.
The forced shutdown of oil production sites resulted in substantial financial losses estimated at approximately $52 billion. There are mixed reports regarding whether Ibrahim Jadhran and his relatives, who were previously implicated in the closure of oil fields from 2013 to 2016, are among those convicted.
The shutdowns began in July 2013, leading to significant interruptions in oil exports and severe economic impacts. In March 2014, Jadhran attempted to independently export oil by loading a tanker at Sidra port, but this operation was thwarted by the U.S. Navy, which seized the vessel near Cyprus.
In summary, the Tripoli criminal court has sentenced seven individuals to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in a violent group that threatened national security by coercing oil workers and disrupting production. The significant financial repercussions resulting from their actions highlight the ongoing struggles faced by the Libyan economy. The legal outcomes reflect the government’s efforts to address these threats, though questions remain regarding the involvement of notable figures like Ibrahim Jadhran.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
