Libya’s Gold Smuggling Crisis: Deepening Scandal at Misrata Airport

Introduction

A Network of Gold Smuggling in Libya

The scale of gold smuggling in Libya, particularly through Misrata International Airport, has escalated into a major scandal. In 2023, the Libyan Internal Security Agency revealed that over 7 billion dinars worth of gold was smuggled, implicating high-ranking officials and revealing a deeply entrenched network of corruption and power plays within the nation’s security apparatus.

Explosive Recordings Unveiled

The Internal Security Agency released a 6-minute and 29-second audio recording that captured conversations among leaders of the smuggling ring, including Fathi Mukhloof, Director of Misrata Airport Customs, and Abu al-Qasim Al-Samoudi, a key figure in Misrata’s Joint Security Force. These recordings, which were later deleted under governmental pressure, exposed systemic smuggling operations and the involvement of top oversight bodies.

The Role of Abdullah Qaderbouh

Abdullah Qaderbouh, head of the Administrative Control Authority, was mentioned positively multiple times in these recordings. He is accused of directly facilitating and protecting the smuggling operations, including instructing Mukhloof to ignore investigation requests from the Misrata branch of the Administrative Control Authority.

Ongoing Struggle for Control

The current conflict extends beyond gold smuggling, representing a struggle for control and influence between the Internal Security Agency and Misrata’s Joint Security Force. Both are vying for dominance over Misrata Airport, a critical point for executing smuggling operations.

Recent Developments at Misrata Airport

The Joint Security Force in Misrata reportedly shut down and arrested all security office employees in the area extending from Al-Khums to Misrata. Additionally, Misrata Airport has experienced several suspensions of flights within the past 72 hours, further indicating the intensity of the ongoing conflict.

Conclusion: A Reflection of Complex Security Dynamics

The unfolding scandal at Misrata Airport highlights the complexities of Libya’s security challenges. The struggle for control between different security factions not only affects the airport’s operations but also reflects the broader issues of governance, corruption, and power dynamics within Libya.