Authorities in southern Libya have arrested three Nigerian nationals on charges of drug trafficking, according to a statement released on Sunday by Migrant Rescue Watch, MRW, a monitoring organisation that tracks migrant-related incidents across North Africa.
The suspects were apprehended by the Samnu Police Department in the town of Samnu, located in the Murzuq district, a region notorious for smuggling and trafficking activities due to its proximity to Libya’s porous southern borders.
According to the MRW report, the trio were found in possession of a quantity of hashish allegedly prepared for sale. The specific amount of the narcotics seized was not disclosed, and the identities of the suspects have yet to be made public.
“Samnu Police Dept. arrested 3 migrants of Nigerian nationality on charges of drug trafficking.
“The trio were found in possession of a quantity of hashish earmarked for sale. The case was referred to public prosecution,” the MRW said in a social media post confirming the arrests.
The arrest forms part of intensified security operations in the region aimed at combating rising incidents of drug trafficking and illegal cross-border activities involving both local and foreign nationals.
Libya continues to serve as a major transit point for migrants, many of whom are attempting to cross into Europe through dangerous Mediterranean routes.
The country’s southern districts, including Murzuq, are also plagued by criminal networks involved in drug smuggling and human trafficking.
The suspects have been transferred to the public prosecution for further investigation and possible prosecution under Libyan law.
