Libya arrests four Nigerians over drug trafficking, health risks

Libyan authorities have arrested four Nigerians in Sabha and Bani Walid on charges related to drug trafficking and testing positive for infectious diseases.

The arrests were disclosed on Monday by Migrant Rescue Watch, an advocacy group, via a post on X (formerly Twitter).

In Sabha, the Criminal Investigation Department conducted a raid on the premises of two Nigerian suspects and seized 1,200 hallucinogenic pills alongside other illicit substances.

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Both suspects were handed over to the Sabha Security Directorate for further investigation.

In a statement, Migrant Rescue Watch confirmed: “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, two Nigerians, a male and a female, were detained in Bani Walid during a routine health screening after testing positive for infectious diseases.

The Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration in Bani Walid transferred the suspects to Tripoli, Libya’s capital, for further processing and eventual repatriation to Nigeria.

Migrant Rescue Watch’s statement read, “DCIM Bureau in Bani Walid transferred two Nigerian #migrants (female and male) who tested positive for infectious diseases to Tripoli for repatriation.”

Bani Walid, located south of Tripoli, is known as a transit hub for migrants attempting to cross into Europe. The Libyan authorities continue to crack down on illegal activities and enforce public health measures within the region.