Haftar’s forces detain Turkish nationals, Turkey says Haftar’s forces are “legitimate target”

Turkey said on Sunday that six of its citizens were being held by eastern Libyan forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar, and that the militia would become a “legitimate target” if they were not released immediately.

“The detention of six of our citizens by illegal militia forces linked to Haftar is an action that amounts to banditry and piracy.” Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said.

“We expect the immediate release of our citizens. If not, Haftar’s forces will become legitimate targets,” Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Two Turks have been detained in Ajdabiya by the eastern-based security forces while four others have been detained in the oil crescent region as per orders by Khalifa Haftar.