The United Nations(UN) has expressed grave concerns over the discovery of dozens of bodies in areas of Tripoli previously controlled by the powerful militia, Stabilisation Support Apparatus (SSA). UN rights chief Volker Turk stated that his office was “shocked” by evidence of severe human rights violations at SSA-run detention sites. The SSA was led by Abdel-Ghani al-Kikli, who was killed in clashes last month.
Turk revealed that investigators found 10 charred bodies at the SSA’s base in Abu Salim and 67 corpses in hospital refrigerators at Abu Salim and Al Khadra facilities. A suspected burial site was also reported at the Tripoli Zoo, which had been under SSA control.
The identities of the victims remain unknown. “Our worst-held fears are being confirmed: dozens of bodies have been discovered at these sites, along with the discovery of suspected instruments of torture and abuse, and potential evidence of extrajudicial killings,” Turk said.
The UN rights chief has demanded international access to ensure accountability and called for the immediate sealing of all affected locations to preserve evidence. Al-Kikli’s assassination triggered fierce fighting across Tripoli, resulting in several deaths and dozens wounded. The city remains vulnerable to competing armed factions operating with impunity.
Turk’s statement comes as the UN pushes for dialogue and a ceasefire mechanism to stabilize Libya. With no unified national force, Tripoli is at the mercy of these factions. The international community continues to urge parties to halt hostilities and protect civilians, emphasizing the need for accountability and an end to human rights abuses.
The United Nations’ reaction to the mass graves discovery in Tripoli highlights the ongoing human rights concerns in Libya. The international community continues to urge parties to halt hostilities and protect civilians, emphasizing the need for accountability and an end to human rights abuses.
The discovery of the mass graves is a stark reminder of the instability and violence that has plagued Libya since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The country’s fragile state has allowed militias and armed groups to operate with relative impunity, perpetuating a culture of violence and lawlessness.