TRIPOLI—The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) is deeply concerned by recent reports of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention and abductions in Libya, including the disappearance of Dr. Mohamed Sharafeddine Al-Fituri and Mr. Abu Bakr Al-Jarrari in Tripoli as well as the arbitrary arrests of Mustafa Al-Sheikh and Mohammed Al-Sheikh in Ghat and their subsequent unknown whereabouts.
UNSMIL calls on the competent authorities to urgently establish the fate and whereabouts of those concerned, ensure their safety and wellbeing, and promptly inform their families. Any deprivation of liberty must be carried out in accordance with the law and accompanied by due process guarantees.
The Mission calls for the immediate release of all individuals unlawfully detained or, where there are legal grounds for detention, their prompt referral to the competent judicial authorities. UNSMIL urges all relevant actors to cooperate fully with the Office of the Attorney General and the competent judicial authorities. UNSMIL further stresses the importance of ensuring access to legal counsel, family members and necessary medical care.
The Mission reiterates that all allegations of enforced disappearance, abduction and arbitrary detention must be promptly and impartially investigated, and that those responsible must be held accountable in accordance with the law. UNSMIL will continue engaging with the relevant authorities to promote respect for human rights and the rule of law throughout Libya.