Tripoli, 16 December 2019 - Reda Fhelboom, a well-known human rights defender and journalist was arrested and detained at Mitiga airport by a Tripoli based armed group on Saturday night, following his arrival from Tunis. 

UNSMIL is concerned that Mr. Fhelboom’s arrest and detention may be on account of his work as a defender and journalist and therefore in violation of Libya’s international human rights law obligations regarding the right to liberty and security of the person and freedom of opinion and expression.

UNSMIL takes note of the statement issued by the Ministry of Interior on the case and is following up with relevant authorities in Tripoli.  UNSMIL stresses that Mr. Fhelboom must be promptly released or referred to a judicial authority.  The Mission calls for the protection of journalists and human rights defenders in Libya, to enable them to freely carry out their work.