Update on Tripoli - Libya

RPS has received some updates on the situation in Tripoli.  Further reports have confirmed that the disturbances seen through the evening last night have led to the GNC building being breached by an unknown number of protestors. 

It is thought that around 500 people had gathered, and been actively involved, in the confrontation.

It is almost certain that there were casualties during the fighting, however, reports cannot be confirmed and are often emboldened for media purposes.

Today will see more clarity on the incident and the advice to all travellersin country and planning on visiting remains the same. Contact RPS on [email protected] for more trravel advice.

Business can be carried out in Tripoli as normal at this time.  Strict movement control should be applied with advance notice of any planned moves being given.  

Thereafter the location and surrounding area can be assessed as to any potential risk.

The area in and around the GNC and Rixos hotel continues to have roadblocks set in place by armed protestors and will need to be avoided at least for the next 24 hours whilst events on the ground are established and the atmospherics can be monitored. Alternate routes are to be selected to navigate around the area to facilitate business as required.

There has been no violence towards normal members of the  public, however, there is always the possibility of being caught up in incidental violence in Tripoli.

Caution, planning and diligence are key considerations in alleviating any risk.

Understandably the effect of these roadblocks and events further adds to the already heavy movement of traffic seen on Tripoli's roads and delays in journeys are highly likely. Your travel plans should allow for this.   

Whilst the GNC continue to stall and to show weak leadership then further incidents are likely to be seen and this has to be a pragmatic acceptance of life in Libya. Should the protesters detained on 1 March not be released, increased violence may take place. In addition, calls for the GNC to resign, which have increased in frequency in 2014, may increase further in light of recent events.

There is no reason not to continue as normal in conjunction with applying the appropriate security measures.

Thanks to SNE for providing this update to RPS. For in detail information contact [email protected]

Photo: Magharebia - demonstrations when Libya passed the political isolation law