On 13 November in the morning, a couple of fishing boats were attacked by a combat drone in the port of Sabratha.
The Counter Security Threats Agency complained that its maritime operations division was bombed on two consecutive nights, with patrol boats destroyed while the Agency was engaged in missions against smuggling, human trafficking, and in search and rescue operations for migrants at sea. While the concrete locations were not disclosed, the Agency described the bombings as a dangerous and unjustified precedent, stressing that its naval units were operating in coordination with the illegal immigration prosecutor’s office and other official bodies. It warned that the attacks undermine national security, weaken the state’s ability to confront organized crime, and jeopardize the safety of rescue operations.
The Agency called for an urgent and transparent investigation to identify those responsible for the strikes, demanded accountability for damages, as well as consequences. It asserted its legal right to protect its assets and personnel. Finally, the agency reassured citizens that its operations continue without interruption, with land and sea units maintaining high efficiency in protecting the country’s security and stability. It also released video footage documenting the bombing of its patrol boats while they were – according to them – engaged in migrant rescue and humanitarian assistance.
On 15 November, the Counter Security Threats Agency raided a human traffickers’ den in Sabratha and confiscated four large boats prepared for migrant-smuggling operations, along with larger quantities of fuel.