Panafrican News Agency

UNSMIL concerned about armed clashes between criminal elements in Tripoli

Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The UN Support  Mission in Libya (UNMIL) has expressed concern about armed clashes between criminal elements in a residential area of Tripoli, condemning such acts and calling on the authorities to work to promote security in the city for protection of civilian lives. 

In a statement issued on Saturday, UNSMIL said it was "deeply concerned about recent clashes between criminal elements, including members of armed groups, in Janzour, a civilian neighbourhood in Tripoli". It stressed that "these clashes have frightened local residents and resulted in a number of casualties".

The Mission condemned "such reckless actions, as they directly endanger civilians at a time when Tripoli is beginning to recover from a 15-month siege". 

Also, the Mission stated that "the clashes underscore the need for the GNA (Government of the National Accord) to rapidly deploy effective and coordinated security sector reform and demobilization, reintegration and disarmament efforts".
-0- PANA BY/JSG/MTA/AR 11July2020