Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sami Zaptia
Published on 2024-03-19 12:06:25
Reports emerged early this morning of armed clashes between government security forces and local armed forces from Zuwara on the Libyan side of the Ras Jedir border crossing with Tunisia. Tunisian authorities were forced to close the crossing from their side due to the ongoing violence. These clashes are seen as a backlash against the Tripoli-based central government’s efforts to assert control over the main Libyan-Tunisian border crossing.
The Acting Minister of Interior in Tripoli, Emad Trabelsi, recently assigned the Law Enforcement Department for Security Operations to the Ras Jedir border crossing in an attempt to combat smuggling, security violations, and other illicit activities. The Ministry of Interior explained that the closure of the border crossing was necessary after outlaw groups attacked the crossing to disrupt its operations and prevent smuggling activities that they considered to be their right. The government aims to restore order at the border crossing and ensure that it operates under the authority and legitimacy of the state.
The local population in Zuwara, predominantly non-Arab Amazighs, believes that the border crossing should be controlled by their local militias. However, the central government in Tripoli insists that it should be under the state control of the Interior Ministry as a national border crossing. This disagreement over control has fueled tensions between the central government and local armed forces in the area.
The Ras Jedir border crossing has long been known as a hub for smuggling activities, particularly of Libya’s subsidised goods such as fuel. The Tripoli government is facing economic challenges including inflation, rising prices, a devalued currency, and a shortage of hard currency needed to import subsidised goods. As a result, they are determined to crack down on smuggling activities in order to protect the country’s economy and prevent further deterioration of its financial situation.
The security services have been deployed to the border crossing to prevent smuggling, combat crime, and maintain security in the area. The government has warned that severe penalties will be imposed on those involved in the violence and disruption of the border crossing. The goal is to ensure that the crossing operates smoothly and efficiently for the benefit of all Libyans, without being controlled by specific groups or regions.
In conclusion, the armed clashes at the Ras Jedir border crossing highlight the complex political and economic challenges facing Libya. The struggle for control over the crossing reflects larger issues of governance, security, and economic stability in the country. The Tripoli government’s efforts to combat smuggling and maintain control over the border crossing are critical steps in addressing these challenges and stabilizing the situation in Libya.
Read the original article on Libya Herald
