Protesters Storm Key Energy Complex in Libya Amid Power Outages

Protesters stormed a critical energy facility in western Libya, escalating demonstrations against chronic electricity shortages and potentially triggering a nationwide power failure. The incident occurred at the Mellitah Oil & Gas complex, located about 90 kilometers west of Tripoli.

The General Electricity Company stated that demonstrators entered the complex and subsequently closed the gas pipelines that supply power plants. This action led to the shutdown of several generators, raising fears of a collapse in the national electricity grid. The union representing workers at the complex condemned the pipeline closure, citing serious technical and operational risks and endangering staff lives.

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This action could ultimately cause the collapse of the electrical grid.

Libya's Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Abdala Hamida Dbeibah, announced that the Ministry of Defense had secured the Mellitah complex. This intervention ensured the safety of employees and allowed for the resumption of gas supplies, which in turn began restoring electricity and stabilizing the national energy network.

The Mellitah Oil & Gas complex is a vital energy supplier, with gas also being exported to Sicily, Italy. Residents across Libya have been protesting for days in multiple cities, demanding improved energy services and the resignation of Prime Minister Dbeibah's government due to the prolonged power outages, which have lasted for several hours.

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this step caused serious technical and operational risks and endangered the lives of workers.