An analytical report published by the English-speaking Senegalese “African Press Agency” has highlighted the ongoing threat of explosive remnants of war in Libya, which have posed a direct danger to civilian lives since 2011.
Widespread Presence of Unexploded Ordnance
The report explained that tens of thousands of mines, improvised explosive devices, and heavy shells remain scattered in urban and remote areas as a result of multiple armed fronts and repeated clashes between factions. It warned that children are the most vulnerable group, as they might mistake these remnants for toys.
Removal Efforts and Funding Limitations
The report confirmed that international non-governmental organizations such as “The HALO Trust” and “Handicap International” are participating in the removal of these explosives. However, a lack of funding prevents the coverage of the entire Libyan territory, leaving vast areas at risk.
Calls for Enhanced Coordination
Security experts quoted in the report stressed the importance of creating a national registry for recovered ordnance and enhancing coordination between municipalities, security forces, and demining agencies, which would help to gradually reduce the scale of the threat.
Military Warning
The report quoted a military analyst as saying, “Until security is restored and front lines stabilize, Libya will remain a vast field of dormant explosives,” indicating the gravity of the current situation and the need for urgent action to address it.