Libyan Police Chief’s Release Sparks Outrage in Italy
Rome: The release of Libyan police chief Njeem Osama Almasri Habish by Italian authorities has ignited a political firestorm in Italy, following his arrest over the weekend on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Almasri, who was accused of heading Tripoli’s notorious Mitiga detention centre, where numerous human rights abuses allegedly took place, was arrested and later released, prompting the ICC to demand explanations from Italy.
According to Ansa News Agency, Almasri’s involvement in the Mitiga detention centre included allegations of torture and forcing migrants, including children, to fight. David Yambio, a spokesperson for Refugees in Libya, told Fanpage.it that during his detention, he witnessed brutal acts, including electrocution and forced fights. Yambio described Almasri as a torturer who ordered murders and reduced inmates to slavery.
Yambio’s testimony was echoed by another witness who spoke to RAI, Italy’s state broadcaster, confirming Almasri’s role in various detention centres, including the Tripoli branch of the Reform and Rehabilitation Institution. The witness accused Almasri of trafficking, stating that he brought migrants from the sea to detention centres, where they had to pay for their release.
The political backlash in Italy has been severe. Opposition parties, including the Green-Left Alliance (AVS), have called for the resignation of Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, criticizing the government for releasing Almasri on a technicality. Maria Chiara Gadda of the Italia Viva party condemned the release as a deliberate choice that undermines Italy’s stance against human trafficking.
AVS lawmakers demonstrated in front of the premier’s office, with leaders Angelo Bonelli and Nicola Fratoianni demanding accountability. They claimed procedural errors were used as an excuse to release a known trafficker and torturer.
The court’s decision to release Almasri was based on a procedural oversight, specifically the failure to consult the justice minister before his arrest. This has led to calls from Elly Schlein, leader of the Democratic Party, for Premier Giorgia Meloni to address parliament and clarify the government’s actions.
Schlein emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, questioning how a government committed to fighting human traffickers could allow such a release. The opposition continues to demand answers and responsibility from Italy’s leadership in this controversial case.