Libyan Army Opens Investigation into Prisoner Torture at Military Prison
Repeated violations in Libyan prisons indicate lack of effective oversight and weak accountability, encouraging continued abuses
January 16, 2025, 9:27 pm

Libyan Army Opens Investigation into Prisoner Torture at Military Prison

الجيش الليبي/ تويتر

The Libyan Army General Command has initiated an investigation into horrific video footage showing torture of detainees at Garnada Military Prison in the eastern part of the country.

Military Prosecutor General Faraj Al-Sosaa announced in an official statement Thursday the formation of a specialized committee to investigate the leaked footage, pledging to hold those involved in these practices accountable.

The decision came following an expanded security meeting that included General Command Secretary-General Khairi Al-Tamimi, Security Units Chief of Staff Khalid Haftar, Ground Forces Chief of Staff Saddam Haftar, and intelligence and military police officials.

The video clips, which spread widely since last Monday, showed severe torture practices against detainees by individuals in military uniforms, including beating and flogging using plastic pipes and sticks, while forcing prisoners to remain naked and bound in painful positions for extended periods.

The leaks sparked a wave of anger and condemnation in human rights and public circles, amid demands for a comprehensive investigation and punishment of those responsible for the violations.

Garnada Prison, located in Shahat city, is under the supervision of the Military Police affiliated with the Libyan Army General Command, and holds both Libyan and foreign citizens, most of whom are accused of terrorism-related cases.

Local and international human rights organizations repeatedly condemn human rights conditions in Libya, especially within detention facilities and prisons controlled by armed group leaders, where UN reports have documented detainees being subjected to torture and deprivation of basic services.

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