Libyan authorities have arrested four Nigerians on allegations of drug trafficking and testing positive for infectious diseases, according to a statement by Migrant Rescue Watch, an advocacy group, on Monday.
The arrests occurred in Sabha and Bani Walid, with both towns being significant transit hubs for migrants seeking to cross into Europe.
In Sabha, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) raided the premises of two Nigerian suspects, seizing 1,200 hallucinogenic pills and other illicit substances. The suspects were transferred to the Sabha Security Directorate for further investigation.
“Migrant Rescue Watch confirmed the operation, stating: ‘CID in Sabha carried out a raid on a reported location and arrested two Nigerian drug traffickers. During a search of the premises, police found 1,200 hallucinogenic pills and other illicit drugs. Both individuals were transferred to the Sabha Security Directorate.’”
In a separate incident in Bani Walid, Libyan authorities detained two Nigerians, a male and a female, during routine health screenings after they tested positive for infectious diseases.
The Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) in Bani Walid subsequently transferred the pair to Tripoli for further processing and eventual repatriation to Nigeria.
Migrant Rescue Watch, in its statement, added: “DCIM Bureau in Bani Walid transferred two Nigerian #migrants (female and male) who tested positive for infectious diseases to Tripoli for repatriation.”
Authorities continue to intensify operations targeting illegal migration and drug trafficking in Libya, which remains a key route for migrants attempting to reach Europe.
