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African Union condemns air strike on Libyan detention centre
ADDIS ABABA, July 3, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – The African Union (AU) Wednesday
condemned an air strike on a detention centre in Libya that killed nearly 40
migrants and demanded those responsible for the “horrific crime” be held to
account.
In a statement, the chairperson of the AU Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat
called for “an independent investigation to be conducted to ensure that those
responsible for this horrific crime of innocent civilians, be brought to
account”.
“The Chairperson reiterates his call for an immediate ceasefire, and for
all parties to ensure the protection and safety of all civilians, especially
the migrants trapped in detention centers,” the AU statement added, calling
on the international community to “redouble efforts” to bring the warring
parties to the negotiation table.
The direct hit on the detention facility housing 120 migrants in a Tripoli
suburb has been blamed on Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar, who controls much
of eastern and southern Libya.
He has been trying for three months to seize the Libyan capital.
The internationally recognised national unity government based in Tripoli
accused pro-Haftar forces of having carried out a “premeditated” and
“precise” attack on the migrant centre at Tajoura.
No one has so far claimed responsibility.
BSS/AFP/FI/ 1418 hrs