Two militia groups clashed in the Arab Maghreb Tourist Village (formerly known as the Regatta Tourist Village) in the Siahiya area of west Tripoli yesterday. Damage was caused to nearby houses, but at the time of publication no civilian injuries or fatalities were reported.
Early this morning, the Acting Minister of Interior, Major General Imad Trabelsi, reacted to the events and explained what had happened and what measures his ministry had taken.
In his video recorded speech, Trabelsi said ‘‘The village of the Arab Maghreb, known as “Regatta”, has been evacuated in the past period from the armed group that was stationed there, as part of the Security Arrangements (a government policy to remove militias formed during the 2011 revolution from urban areas and sites to the regular Ministry of Interior police force) that have been taken. The tourist village was (then) officially handed over to its administration (the state Inma Fund Company).
30-to-40-armed militia vehicles
Last night we were surprised by the return of an armed group to the village, which led to clashes using light and medium weapons with the participation of approximately 30 to 40 armed vehicles.
I immediately moved to the area to confirm the situation, and I confirm that none of the state’s security agencies were involved in these clashes.
We have instructed the assignment of a joint security force comprising the Tripoli Security Directorate, the Stabilization Support Service, the Directorates Support Service and the Special Operations Force, which was directed to the tourist village under my direct supervision.
Excessive force would be used to control the situation
We have given clear instructions to enforce the law and establish control over the situation, even if necessary, using excessive force. We also informed the Attorney General’s Office, and prosecutors were assigned to accompany the force tasked with ensuring that the proceedings proceeded legally.
Clashes represent terror to the public
What happened represents terror to the people who are safe in their homes, which cannot be tolerated. Accordingly, strict measures will be taken, including closing the village completely, returning the village to the management of the Inma Fund Company, and imposing security and stability in all areas – even by the use of force.
Police agencies will be strengthened and armed in the coming period to face any security threat with full force and firmness. We will not allow any breach of security or targeting of the security of citizens.
There is full coordination and cooperation between the Ministry of Interior, other security agencies, and the Chief of the General Staff of the Libyan Army. This cooperation will enhance the success of security work and support stabilization efforts.
We assure everyone that the security and stability of citizens is a top priority, and we will spare no effort in achieving this’’.
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