The Tarhuna Victims Association welcomed the arrest of one of those wanted by the International Criminal Court, considering it an important step towards achieving justice, while at the same time expressing its hope that the remaining four wanted by the court will be arrested.
The association added, through its member Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil, in an intervention with Al-Ahrar, that the number of those wanted for Tarhuna crimes over the past 8 years is in the hundreds, calling on the local judicial authorities, represented by the security and police agencies and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, to intensify their efforts to arrest them.
Al-Hamil expressed his dissatisfaction with the failure of the National Unity Government and its enforcement agencies to arrest and prosecute those wanted in Tarhuna, stressing the need for a mechanism to investigate and address the effects of previous violations, as he put it.
The 444th Fighting Brigade had announced the arrest of “Mohammed Al-Salhin,” one of the most wanted by the International Criminal Court and the Libyan Public Prosecutor’s Office, after a careful monitoring and investigation process, according to a statement published this evening.
The statement said that “Al-Salehin” is accused of killing at least 60 innocent citizens in Tarhuna prison, in addition to hanging one of the kidnapped people inside the prison, noting that the accused was handed over to the Public Prosecutor’s Office to investigate and prosecute him for his crimes.
Last October, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against 6 members of the “Al-Kaniyat” militia on charges of committing war crimes: Abdul Rahim Al-Kani, Makhlouf Douma, Nasser Muftah Daw, Muhammad Al-Salihin, Abdul-Bari Al-Shaqaqi, and Fathi Al-Zankal.
Source: Tarhuna Victims Association + Libya Al-Ahrar
What challenges does the Tarhuna Victims Association face in advocating for accountability and support for victims’ families?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil, Member of the Tarhuna Victims Association
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil. Thank you for joining us today. The recent arrest of one of the individuals wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes in Tarhuna must be a significant moment for the Tarhuna Victims Association. Can you share your thoughts on this development?
Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil: Thank you for having me. Indeed, the arrest is a crucial milestone in our ongoing fight for justice. We have waited for eight long years for accountability, and every step taken towards this goal reinforces our hope for all victims and their families. This arrest brings some closure, albeit partial, to the suffering inflicted upon us.
Time.news Editor: It’s heartening to hear that. However, you mentioned that there are still four individuals wanted by the ICC. Can you elaborate on what these arrests would mean for victims and their families?
Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil: Absolutely. The remaining four fugitives represent not just individuals but the broader system of impunity that has plagued our community. Their arrest would not only serve justice for the specific crimes they committed but also symbolize a commitment to confronting all forms of violence against innocent people in Tarhuna. Victims’ families need to see that there will be consequences for these actions; only then can true healing begin.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that the number of individuals wanted for Tarhuna crimes is in the hundreds. What are the challenges the association faces in pursuing justice for all these victims?
Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil: The challenges are numerous and complex. Firstly, the legal process can be slow and cumbersome. There also exists significant political pressure and influence from various factions that complicate accountability. Moreover, there is a consistent atmosphere of fear among witnesses that often prevents them from stepping forward. It’s a multifaceted battle that requires both legal and grassroots mobilization to combat.
Time.news Editor: How does the association mobilize support to overcome these challenges?
Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil: We focus on raising awareness both locally and internationally about the atrocities committed in Tarhuna. By sharing the stories of victims and their families, we aim to build a network of support that can advocate for justice. We collaborate with human rights organizations to bring attention to our plight and push for action. Social media has also played a critical role in amplifying our voice worldwide.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a tough but vital mission. What gives you hope as you continue this important work?
Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil: Our hope comes from the resilience of the victims’ families and the solidarity we find with international advocates. Each small victory, each arrest, and every raised voice reminds us that justice, while slow, is possible. We live in a world where more people are aware of human rights abuses, and that increasing scrutiny can pave the way for accountability.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing these insights, Abdel Moneim. Your dedication to seeking justice is inspiring. As we close, what message would you like to convey to those who might be listening or reading about your situation?
Abdel Moneim Al-Hamil: I want everyone to know that the fight for justice is not just our fight; it belongs to all humanity. Each victim represents a story cut short and a family shattered. We all have a role to play in opposing injustice and standing in solidarity with those who suffer. Together, we can create a world where such atrocities are met with accountability. Thank you for highlighting our cause.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Abdel Moneim. We will continue to follow your story and hope that justice prevails for the people of Tarhuna.