Chaos in Tripoli as reports emerge on Ghaniwa’s death

Heavy clashes broke out in Tripoli on Monday following reports that Abdul Ghani al-Kikli, widely known as Ghaniwa, had died.

Ghaniwa led the Stability Support Department under the Presidency Council and was a powerful figure in the capital’s security landscape.

His reported death was linked to an incident at the headquarters of the 444 Brigade, a group tied to the Tripoli Military Zone.

A security source said it remained unclear why Ghaniwa had gone to the brigade’s base.

As news of the incident spread, residents in southern Tripoli heard loud and continuous gunfire.

Armed groups from Zawiya, Zintan and Misurata began moving toward the capital, adding to the tension.

Footage shared by local media showed convoys of fighters and military vehicles gathering in and around Tripoli.

The Ministry of Health declared a state of full alert, while the Interior Ministry urged people to stay indoors.

In response to the unfolding crisis, Mitiga International Airport suspended flights and rerouted them to Misurata, which lies about 250 kilometres east.

Schools across Tripoli were also shut down.

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya called for calm. "The mission is closely monitoring reports of military build-ups and escalating tensions in Tripoli and the broader western region. We call on all parties to de-escalate the situation, refrain from provocative actions and resolve disputes through dialogue," it said.

The mission further expressed its support for ongoing efforts led by community elders to ease tensions.

"The Mission supports Libya’s efforts, including those led by elders and community leaders, to achieve a peaceful resolution and emphasises the critical responsibility of parties to protect civilians," it added.

The situation in Tripoli remains fragile, with fears that the violence could spread if tensions are not defused quickly.