Libya’s Attorney General, al-Sadiq al-Sur, has affirmed that criminal actions will target those responsible for the Derna Dam disaster, regardless of their status or identity.
During a press conference late Friday evening, al-Sur stated, “The Attorney General’s office has comprehensive studies about the history of the dams. We have initiated summoning the Dam Management and the specialized authority for water resources.” He emphasized that investigations focus on the funds allocated for dam maintenance. Confirming that reports in his office documented the presence of cracks in the dams, he underlined their urgent need for repair.
Al-Sur further revealed that the investigations encompass successive local authorities, highlighting any lapses or negligence that contributed to the collapse of the dams. “Once the investigations are concluded, we will release the details and take action against those who have precipitated this disaster,” he pledged.
Parallelly, Libya’s Health Minister appointed by the parliament, Othman Abdel Jalil, confirmed that the death toll has risen to 3,166. He clarified that these figures have been recorded by the prosecutors responsible for burials.
The Derna Dam catastrophe has drawn significant attention to the infrastructure and management practices in Libya, highlighting the country’s broader challenges. Libya, emerging from years of conflict, has seen its critical infrastructure often neglected or underfunded. This tragedy has prompted many to call for better governance and greater transparency in infrastructure projects. Dams play a pivotal role in the nation’s water management and energy production, and this incident underscores the urgent need for improved safety protocols and maintenance.
