Libyan General Arrested in Italy on ICC War Crimes Warrant

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Osama Najim, a Libyan general also known as Almasri, was arrested on Sunday in Turin, Italy, following an international warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Najim, former chief of Libya's judicial police and director of Mitiga prison near Tripoli, faces serious allegations including war crimes, crimes against humanity, rape, and murder.

His arrest came as he attended a football match between Juventus and AC Milan. Authorities acted on a tip-off from Interpol, detaining him at a hotel in the city. Italy's Justice Minister, Carlo Nordio, is currently assessing the ICC's request to transfer Najim to Rome's attorney general.

Human rights organizations have condemned Mitiga prison for systematic abuses, including torture and arbitrary detention, particularly of political dissidents and migrants. The arrest sheds light on a controversial agreement between Italy and Libya that aims to prevent refugee boats from leaving Libyan shores, often resulting in return to abusive detention centers.

The NGO Mediterranea Saving Humans welcomed the arrest, highlighting years of victim complaints leading to the ICC's investigation. Journalist Nello Scavo also detailed Najim's alleged involvement in the illegal transfer of migrants for forced labor in his book, suggesting Najim's capacity to coerce European nations regarding migration policies.

Scavo indicated that if a trial could proceed before the ICC, it could mark a pivotal moment, despite concerns that various governments might be wary of what Najim’s testimony could reveal about their dealings with Libya and other North African countries.

This incident complicates the already contentious immigration discourse in Europe, particularly under Italy's current government administration, which has enacted strict immigration measures.

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