Operations at Mitiga International Airport near Tripoli Suspended Following Clashes between Rival Militia Groups
Category: Instability
Severity: 4 (High)
Source: Drum Cussac
01/15/2018 (Libya) - According to local media sources on Monday, 15 January, operations at Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) have been suspended and inbound flights have been diverted to Misrata Airport (MRA) after clashes broke out nearby between rival militias. The fighting pitted the Special Deterrence Force (Rada), one of the most powerful groups in the city, against the rival group Brigade 33, based in Tripoli's Tajoura neighbourhood. Imagery on social media from streets surrounding the airport showed pick-up trucks mounted with guns and a tank. Unconfirmed reports indicate at least three people, including one civilian, have been killed and six others wounded in the clashes, which began at roughly 0730hrs (0530 UTC).
Those in Tripoli are advised to avoid the vicinity of the Mitiga Airport in the immediate term due to the risk of further violence and unrest. Travellers with journey itineraries via MJI should factor its closure into their business continuity plans and consider alternate routes. Travellers should reconsider all non-essential movement outside of secure compounds in Libya given the current instability and conflict situation and remain vigilant at all times. Security and contingency measures should be continually reviewed and updated so as to remain commensurate with local threat environment.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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