Somalia Moves to Repatriate Citizens Detained in Eastern Libya

Somali Human Rights Delegation Visits Benghazi Prison Ahead of Planned Repatriation of Detainees

A delegation from Somalia’s Independent National Human Rights Commission has conducted a field visit to Qanfouda Prison in Benghazi, eastern Libya, to assess the conditions of Somali detainees as part of ongoing efforts to facilitate their release and voluntary return to Somalia.

During the visit, Libyan authorities explained that the majority of the Somali detainees are being held on charges related to irregular migration and have not been sentenced by any court. Officials indicated that preparations are underway for their release and confirmed that the necessary arrangements are being made to support their voluntary repatriation, with travel expenses to be covered by the relevant authorities.

According to information presented during the visit, around 300 Somali nationals are currently detained in prisons across eastern and southern Libya. Approximately 70 of them are being held at Qanfouda Prison, including eight women, one of whom is the mother of a three-year-old child.

The delegation was led by Acting Chairman and Deputy Commissioner Mohamed Harun Mahmud, accompanied by Commissioner Ali Mohamed Almi. They were received by prison officials and held direct discussions with several detainees to hear their concerns, needs, and requests.

The commission pledged to immediately convey the detainees' situation to the Somali government in order to accelerate the necessary measures for their release and ensure their safe and voluntary return home.

The visit highlights ongoing efforts to protect the rights and welfare of Somali citizens abroad while strengthening cooperation with Libyan authorities on humanitarian issues related to migration and detention.