Libyan Presidential Council chairman Mohamed al-Menfi has instructed four agencies to take immediate action to free citizen Mohamed al-Baoundi, who was kidnapped from the capital Tripoli. Al-Menfi tasked the agencies with taking all necessary measures to secure al-Baoundi's release. The kidnapping is believed to have been carried out by an armed group with ties to the Libyan Intelligence Agency, led by Hussein al-Aib.
The four agencies tasked with freeing al-Baoundi include the Deputy Minister of Defense, the Commander of the Counter-Terrorism Force, the Director of the Interior Minister's Office, and the Commander of the Joint Operations Force. They have been instructed to work urgently to apprehend those involved in the kidnapping and to bring them before the military judiciary to face punishment.
Al-Menfi's directive described the kidnapping and forced disappearance as crimes of terrorism and serious crimes that undermine human rights and public security. He emphasized the need for decisive action to prevent such crimes and ensure accountability. The Presidential Council chairman also highlighted the gravity of the situation, given that the kidnapping was allegedly carried out by individuals with public authority.
The kidnapping of Mohamed al-Baoundi has sparked widespread concern in Libya, where cases of enforced disappearance and kidnapping have become increasingly common. The incident has also raised questions about the role of the Libyan Intelligence Agency, which has been accused of involvement in human rights abuses.
The Director of the Presidential Council's Office, Mohamed al-Mabrouk Suleiman, delivered al-Menfi's instructions to the four agencies on Tuesday. The move is seen as part of the government's efforts to address the growing problem of kidnappings and enforced disappearances in Libya.
Al-Menfi's directive has been welcomed by human rights activists, who have long called for greater action to be taken to prevent enforced disappearances and to hold those responsible accountable. The incident has also highlighted the need for greater coordination and cooperation between Libyan agencies to address the complex security challenges facing the country.
The Libyan government has faced criticism for its handling of human rights issues, including enforced disappearances and kidnappings. The government's response to al-Baoundi's kidnapping will be closely watched, as it seeks to demonstrate its commitment to protecting human rights and upholding the rule of law.
Key points
- The Libyan Presidential Council has taken steps to address the kidnapping of Mohamed al-Baoundi, a citizen who was forcibly disappeared by an armed group.
- Four agencies have been tasked with taking urgent measures to secure al-Baoundi's release and to bring those responsible before the military judiciary.
- The incident has highlighted the growing problem of enforced disappearances and kidnappings in Libya, and the need for greater action to prevent such crimes.
