Libya Detains Two Nigerians Over Social Media ‘Incitement’

​TRIPOLI — Libyan security forces have arrested two Nigerian nationals in the coastal town of Qarabouli, located just east of the capital, Tripoli, on charges of using social media platforms to spread violent and criminal incitement.

​According to an official statement released by Tripoli’s security apparatus, the suspects were flagged after an investigation traced the production and digital circulation of explicit media content back to them. Authorities characterized the videos and posts as highly provocative, noting that they actively promoted lawlessness, criminal activity, and civil unrest.

​Law enforcement officials emphasized that the suspects’ digital activities constituted a severe violation of sovereign Libyan laws and posed a “direct threat to public security and stability” during a sensitive period of stabilization for the North African nation.

ADVERTISEMENT

​Following a preliminary interrogation and the digital auditing of their devices, both individuals were formally charged. Security forces confirmed that all standard legal procedures have been finalized, and the case file, along with the detainees, has been officially transferred to the Prosecution Office.

​The public prosecutor’s office will now conduct a deeper investigation into the suspects’ potential networks, motives, and any broader implications their digital campaigns may have had on local communities.

​The arrest highlights growing scrutiny by Libyan law enforcement over digital spaces and the use of social media by foreign nationals within its borders. Qarabouli, a coastal transit point frequently monitored by security agencies, has seen tighter surveillance in recent months to curb both local crime and cross-border illicit activities.

​The identities of the two Nigerians have been withheld pending their formal appearance in court.