The 444th Combat Brigade, part of Libya's Western based National Army, reported last Tuesday (20 August) that, based on precise intelligence, some of its detachments uncovered a dangerous criminal network involved in smuggling and trafficking narcotics and psychotropic substances from neighbouring countries, including Chad and Niger, before distributing them within Libyan territory.
In coordination with the relevant security authorities and under close surveillance, a task force was formed to track the network members and monitor their movements. The detachments were able to identify two members of this criminal organization.
After completing surveillance and investigation and setting up an ambush, the force apprehended the two individuals, identified as (S.M.S.) and (A.A.A.), in the act of trafficking and possession.
They were found in possession of a large quantity of narcotics and psychotropic substances, estimated at approximately 13,000 hallucinogenic tablets.
The Brigade said the new seizure confirms that it is remaining vigilant against smuggling routes and is not allowing drug networks to turn Libya into a market for their poisons. Whenever these gangs attempt to open a new route, our forces are ready and waiting, it added.
The necessary legal procedures have been taken, and the two suspects have been referred to the Public Prosecutor's Office to complete the legal proceedings against them, it reported.
The 444th Combat Brigade said it is tightening the noose on drug traffickers and protecting society from the most dangerous scourges.