Three detained in Libya over illegal import of outdated chemical pesticides

Libya’s Public Prosecution has ordered the pre-trial detention of three suspects working within the National Committee for Combating Desert Locusts, pending investigations into the illegal receipt of expired chemical pesticides.

According to the Anti-Corruption Prosecution in Tripoli, the suspects received a shipment of approximately 2,000 litres of pesticides during 2025, despite the chemicals having expired in 2007. Investigators said the consignment entered the country without undergoing mandatory customs clearance.

In a statement, prosecutors said the suspects deliberately bypassed official inspection and environmental safety procedures, failing to present the shipment to the competent authorities for testing and certification.

The prosecution added that the actions posed serious environmental risks, noting that the suspects sought to avoid the high costs associated with the safe disposal of hazardous chemical materials.

Investigations are continuing, with authorities stressing that those found responsible will be held accountable in accordance with Libyan law.