Tripoli: UN Human Rights Chief Volker Trk expressed shock over revelations of gross human rights violations at detention facilities in Tripoli, urging the Libyan authorities to seal these sites and conduct independent investigations.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Trk highlighted the findings of the UN Support Mission in Libya and witness accounts, which confirmed the existence of such sites and associated violations, including torture and enforced disappearances. Trk stated, “Our worst held fears are being confirmed: dozens of bodies have been discovered at these sites, along with the discovery of suspected instruments of torture and abuse, and potential evidence of extrajudicial killings.”
The UN High Commissioner stressed that the sites must be sealed to preserve evidence and ensure accountability. He raised concerns over the lack of access granted to Libya’s forensic authorities to excavate the sites and called for unimpeded access. Between May 18-21, the UN Human Rights Office reported the excavation of 10 charred bodies at the SSA headquarters in Abu Salim, with 67 bodies found in refrigerators at local hospitals. Identifications remain unclear due to decomposition.
Trk expressed distress over the dissemination of images and videos of the sites on social media, urging respect for victims’ dignity and privacy. He called for UN access to document the violations as part of its mandate. The discoveries followed the killing of SSA leader Abdul Ghani al-Kikli, which led to clashes and protests in Tripoli, resulting in civilian casualties and property damage.
The High Commissioner acknowledged the formation of two committees by the Attorney-General to investigate violations during the clashes and urged thorough, impartial investigations into the killing of the SSA leader and related abuses. He emphasized the need for accountability and victims’ rights to truth, justice, and reparations.
Trk underscored the importance of avoiding further escalation and upholding the truce brokered by the Truce Committee and UNSMIL. He reminded all parties of their obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law, advocating for a peaceful existence centered on human rights and freedoms for Libyans.
“The people of Libya have clearly expressed their demand for truth and justice, and their yearning for a peaceful and safe way of life,” Trk stated. He called on political and security actors to protect and fulfill the human rights of all Libyans and urged efforts towards establishing a full and inclusive democracy.