Libya has successfully arrested 14 individuals linked to the prison break that occurred in 2020 at the Correction and Rehabilitation Institution in Sorman. The announcement follows the escape of 401 inmates from Sorman Prison in mid-April 2020, a tumultuous event during the liberation of the city.
The former Government of National Accord disclosed the escape, revealing that among the 401 inmates were 384 male prisoners and nine female inmates. The breakout transpired amidst a rebellion and was met with official assurances that all escapees were either in pretrial detention or sentenced through valid legal procedures. The government explicitly refuted claims made by Operation “Volcano of Rage” asserting the presence of minor children among the detainees in Sorman prison.
In response to the incident, the United Nations mission in Libya expressed deep concern over reports of “attacks on civilians, the storming of Sorman prison, and the release of 401 prisoners without proper legal procedures or investigation.” The UN mission also highlighted disturbing acts of mutilation of bodies and revenge, including looting, robbery, and the destruction of public and private property.
The recent arrests signify a significant step toward addressing the aftermath of the prison break and restoring order to the Correction and Rehabilitation Institution in Sorman. The Libyan authorities are now expected to initiate legal proceedings against the apprehended individuals, marking a crucial phase in bringing those involved in the escape to justice.
