Tripoli: Attorney General Counselor Al-Siddiq Ahmed Al-Sour convened a comprehensive meeting with the newly inducted members of the Public Prosecution Office, emphasizing the critical role they play in reinforcing Libya’s justice system and restoring the state’s prestige. During the session, he addressed several pressing challenges and tasks.
According to Libyan News Agency, Al-Sour underscored the urgency of respecting citizens and promptly addressing their grievances, a responsibility directly overseen by his office. He urged the members to remain vigilant and responsible, highlighting their proximity to the public as crucial during the nation’s current critical phase.
Addressing concerns about case collection amidst weak security agency performance, Al-Sour introduced the “Judicial Control Unit” within his office. This unit, comprising police officers and personnel, conducts field operations across regions such as Benghazi, Al-Bayda, and Sabha, in close coordination with local prosecutors. This initiative has significantly enhanced efforts against organized crime and human trafficking.
Al-Sour also highlighted the new digital judicial system that facilitates locating wanted individuals, thus streamlining case collection even more than in past secure times. He praised the system’s efficacy in implementing over 18,000 court rulings, a milestone unattained since 2011, and noted the voluntary surrender of some individuals due to enforced legal repercussions like salary suspensions.
The Attorney General stressed that crimes are timeless, reiterating that justice will eventually catch up with offenders of murder, embezzlement, and corruption. He acknowledged the deterrent effect of judgments in absentia, despite their humanitarian implications.
A significant drug smuggling case involving 25 tons was also revealed, with suspects from various Libyan regions currently under investigation, exemplifying national cooperation against organized crime.
Al-Sour addressed criticism from human rights organizations regarding pretrial detention expansion, explaining its legal use within the confines of law for evidence collection, crime seriousness, and accused protection. Given the lack of effective reform institutions and armed group control, pretrial detention is sometimes deemed necessary for dangerous offenders.
He urged Public Prosecution members to evaluate situations carefully when making critical decisions such as releases or detentions, advising constant communication with superiors for thorough assessments. The electronic judicial system now provides a reliable suspect database, aiding informed decision-making.
Concluding his address, Al-Sour encouraged the new members, affirming their role in establishing justice under challenging circumstances and emphasizing teamwork to protect the law and serve the populace.