Controversial Release of Ossama Anjiem
Italy has come under fire after Ossama Anjiem, a Libyan warlord also known as Ossama al-Masri, was released from custody following his arrest under an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. Arrested in Turin on January 21, 2025, Anjiem faces serious allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to his role at a detention center in Libya since 2011. His release on procedural grounds, citing a failure to inform Justice Minister Carlo Nordio prior to the arrest, has sparked outrage among opposition lawmakers and human rights organizations.
Legal Technicalities Lead to Release
A court of appeals in Rome ordered Anjiem’s release due to what it deemed a procedural error. According to the court, the Justice Minister was required to be notified of the arrest given his ministry’s oversight of relations with the ICC. The ruling concluded that without proper validation, Anjiem could not be held, leading to his swift departure from Italy back to Libya on an Italian intelligence service aircraft.
Political Backlash and Claims of Hypocrisy
The decision to free Anjiem ignited fierce criticism from various political figures, including former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, who accused the right-wing government of hypocrisy regarding its anti-trafficking rhetoric. Renzi highlighted the discrepancy between the government’s efforts to combat human trafficking and its decision to repatriate a recognized criminal. He called the actions of the government “hypocritical” and a reflection of a deeper moral failing.
Italy’s Ties with Libya Under Scrutiny
The Democratic Party has called for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to address the situation in parliament, pointing out that Anjiem’s release raises serious concerns about the Italian government’s alignment with known human rights abuses in Libyan detention facilities. Italy has maintained close ties with Libya’s government, which complicates international scrutiny and the potential for a trial in The Hague. Critics argue that this relationship may lead Italy to prioritize diplomatic ties over human rights.
Reactions from Human Rights Groups and Activists
Human rights organizations, including Mediterranea Saving Humans and Refugees in Libya, expressed disbelief at Anjiem’s release, insisting that it undermines efforts to obtain justice for victims of abuse. They described the situation as “shameful” and characterized the Italian government’s actions as a political choice with severe implications. Libyan human rights activist Tarik Lamloum emphasized that this incident highlights the influence of militias in Libya, who have significant control over migrant flows and can exert pressure on Italy, ultimately benefiting from European funding aimed at curbing migration.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Irish Examiner
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