Major General Ashraf Al-Faydi, head of the Investigation Office for the Anti-Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Agency, announced a significant operation conducted last week in Tobruk, resulting in the seizure of approximately five kilograms of the highly dangerous drug ‘Shabu’ (crystal methamphetamine). Al-Faydi stressed that this interception represents one of the most critical cases the agency has confronted recently.
‘Shabu’: A New, Deadly Threat to Libya’s Central Nervous System
In a video statement observed by Almanassa, Al-Faydi clarified that ‘Shabu ‘, scientifically known as methamphetamine and commonly referred to in illicit circles as ‘crystal,’ ‘meth,’ or ‘ice’—is among the most lethal narcotics recently introduced into Libya. He warned that the drug directly targets the central nervous system and the brain, emphasising that an overdose can lead to immediate death, a risk distinct from those associated with cocaine, heroin, and other conventional drugs.
Evolution of the Libyan Drug Market and Trafficking Routes
The head of investigations noted a shift in the Libyan drug landscape, which historically centred on cocaine, heroin, and cannabis. The recent appearance of ‘Shabu’ indicates a change, with the substance now being sourced from neighbouring countries and trafficking routes originating from El Salvador, Europe, and Africa. Although Al-Faydi stated that its spread in Libya remains limited compared to regional states such as Egypt and Jordan, it has registered a growing presence in the illicit market over the past year.
Details of the Specialized Tobruk Operation
Regarding the latest operation, Al-Faydi confirmed that the agency’s Tobruk branch executed the seizure successfully, arresting two individuals of Egyptian nationality implicated in the attempt to traffic the seized quantity of the drug. The Major General praised the professionalism and significant field efforts displayed by the branch’s officers and personnel in handling such sensitive cases, underscoring their high readiness.
Al-Faydi concluded by affirming that the agency is maintaining intensive coordination across its national branches to combat the introduction and proliferation of narcotic substances. He stressed that the primary objective is to pursue the criminal networks responsible and safeguard the Libyan community from what is globally recognised as one of the most dangerous forms of addiction.
