Libya Crimes Watch (LCW) expresses deep concern over the situation in the city of Derna following the recent protests that took place on September 18 following the disaster of the collapse of the Derna dam. The protests were demanding an investigation into the incident and accountability of those responsible.
LCW has received reliable reports that the Internal Security Agency has carried out a widespread campaign of arbitrary arrests and detention targeting a number of protesters. In addition, the authorities have imposed strict security measures, including isolating some areas, restricting journalists, and cutting off the internet and communications.
LCW expresses its deep concern about what appears to be a systematic campaign of repression by the security and military agencies in the city of Derna, in an attempt to intimidate protesters and silence their voices.
LCW calls on the authorities in eastern Libya to immediately cease these violations, release all arbitrarily detained individuals immediately and unconditionally, and respect the fundamental rights to freedom of opinion and expression and peaceful assembly.
