Libya: 221 Implicated in Government Building Arson During Football Fan Riots

Authorities in western Libya have identified 221 individuals allegedly involved in the burning of a government building during riots instigated by fans of the Al Ittihad football club. The security services described the incident as a "pre-prepared act of sabotage," asserting that the events were not spontaneous but involved organized elements intent on committing violence against state institutions.

The riots erupted on May 14 after Al Ittihad, Tripoli's oldest football club, withdrew from a match due to perceived refereeing injustices. In protest, fans reportedly attacked security forces and marched through Tripoli, ultimately setting fire to a building belonging to the Government of National Unity (GUN).

Subsequent investigations by the Interior Security Service uncovered evidence of communication channels used to coordinate tasks among the participants. This, along with calls for mobilization and the use of violence against military, security agents, and government facilities, has confirmed the "organized character" of the disturbances, according to the security agency.

The service plans to release video evidence, including digital, technical, and physical proof, along with confessions from those implicated. The exact date for the release of this evidence has not yet been specified.