No Peace Without Justice (NPWJ) welcomes Italy’s cooperation in the execution of the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Osama al-Najim in Turin on 20 January 2025. Mr. al-Najim was identified in a US Department of Justice report as a director of the Mitiga Central Prison, a facility in which egregious violations have allegedly been committed, including prolonged arbitrary detention, ill treatment, and torture. He is currently a Commander in the Libyan Judicial Police.
NPWJ looks forward to the expedited surrender of Mr. al-Najim to the ICC in full compliance with Italy’s obligations under the Rome Statute, emphasising that immunities from prosecution and similar exceptions are waived by all States Parties to the Rome Statute. NPWJ also underscores Mr. al-Najim’s right to a fair trial with legal assistance of his choosing and to fully exercise the rights afforded to investigated persons under international law.
This arrest represents a significant step towards justice and accountability for the grave violations committed in Libya, particularly against migrants and other vulnerable communities. The crimes perpetrated in Libya over the past decade, as documented by the UN Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Libya, have left a devastating impact on countless victims. The apprehension of a high-ranking official such as Mr. al-Najim sends a strong message that impunity for such atrocities will not be tolerated.
NPWJ calls on the relevant authorities to fully cooperate with the ICC and to ensure a thorough, impartial investigation into the alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Libya. NPWJ also urges the ICC to take advantage of this situation to intensify its outreach efforts in Libya, to ensure the Libyan people can follow the proceedings being undertaken on their behalf.
NPWJ further urges authorities to broaden the scope of their investigations to encompass not only direct perpetrators but also individuals and entities that have aided and abetted these crimes through financial, logistical, or other means. Accountability must extend to those who have facilitated these atrocities, whether through funding or other support, to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to justice.
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