May 22, 2024 - JOSSICA - jossica.com

Armed groups in Benghazi lie within the shadows of the cities urban landscape. Notably, the significant presence of these armed groups in Benghazi weaves a narrative of power, politics, and conflict in post-revolutionary Libya.

Among these groups, the presence of various militias and factions further complicates the scene. Allegiances shift, and the line between friend and foe blurs. Additionally, allegations of human rights abuses and forced evictions cast a chilling shadow over their influence.

Sharp contrasts are visible with the aspirations for stability epitomized by institutions like the Al Karama Training Center. Consequently, as Libya grapples with its fractured identity, the armed groups of Benghazi, including the myriad of fighters and factions within the city, offer a glimpse into a nation’s struggle for sovereignty amidst the chaos of conflict.

At the forefront stands the enigmatic Tariq Bin Ziyad Brigade. The Benghazi Armed Forces incorporate the unit. And, notably, its actions reverberate with tales of both valor and villainy.

Kahlifa Hafter (on the right) and his son Saddam Hafter during a visit of the Libyan armed groups.[source]

1. Tariq bin Ziyad Brigade

Tarik bin Ziyad Brigade motto [source]

The Tariq Bin Ziyad Brigade is one of the largest and most influential armed groups operating under the Libyan Arab Armed Forces. Notably, it is a notable entity amidst the myriad of armed factions in Benghazi. Moreover, this brigade is made up of a mix of professional soldiers who fought alongside Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. And, fighters from tribes allied with the Libyan Arab Armed Forces. This mix highlights the complex blend of loyalty and ambition within Benghazi’s martial landscape.

“Unlawful killings, torture, and other ill-treatment, enforced disappearance, rape, and other sexual violence, and forced displacement — with no fear of consequences” are some of the alleged terrifying acts carried out by the Tariq Ben Zeyad Brigade. Notably, their brutality is underscored, showing the reality faced by those caught in the crosshairs of armed groups in Benghazi.

Since late 2021, the TBZ is implicated in the forced eviction of thousands of residents from Sabha and its environs. Notably, this displacement is a testament to the extensive reach and influence of these groups beyond the immediate battlegrounds.

Between 2014 and 2019, the Libyan Arab Armed Forces conducted military campaigns to seize control of the eastern Libyan cities of Derna and Benghazi. In essence, the operations underscore the pivotal role of armed groups in Benghazi, like the Tariq Bin Ziyad Brigade, in shaping the outcomes of conflict and governance in Libya. Furthermore, these campaigns not only resulted in the forced relocation of Libyan families but also highlighted the enduring power struggles and the fraught path toward sovereignty and stability in a nation marred by conflict and division. [source]

Commander: Saddam Haftar (son of Khalifa Haftar)
Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces
Headquarters: Benghazi, Libya

1.1 Activities of the Armed Groups of Benghazi

On 12 September 2022, the Libya Crimes Watch reports the Tariq Ben Zeyad Brigade set fire to the house of activist Senussi Al-Mahdi. The arson was a response for criticizing the violations taking place in the Buhadi area south of Sirte.
On 19 December 2022, Amnesty International accused the Tariq bin Ziyad Brigade l of committing war crimes. [source]
On 22 August, the official spokesman for the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, Major General Ahmed Al-Mismari, confirmed that Major General Tariq bin Ziyad Al-Muazzaz is deployed inside the city of Sabha with the 11th Infantry Battalion. Moreover, Al-Mismari added that the deployment of the 11th Infantry Battalion came based on instructions from the Southern Operations Force Command. Additionally, the spokesman explained that the battalion’s deployment included its main entrances and the roads leading to it. The aim, was to of secure the city and its surroundings, according to the plan to secure the southwestern region.
On 20 August, the forces of Tariq bin Ziyad chased the remnants of Chadian rebels inside the southern Libyan border. Some Chadian factions opposed to the military authority in N’Djamena are taking refuge in southern Libya. The common Libyan border with Chad is described as a starting point for rebels who launch operations inside Chad. [source]

1.2 152^nd Battalion

152nd Battalion motto [source]

The 152nd Brigade, under the command of Major General Tariq Bin Ziyad Al-Mouzaz, stands as a formidable force in ensuring the security and stability of southeastern Libya. Notably, tasked with combating the scourge of smuggling, this battalion, led by Colonel Abdul Hakim Amazeb Al-Saadi, operates diligently under the directives and decisions of the Armed Forces’ Commander-in-Chief and the Ground Forces’ Operations Commander.

Moreover, The 152nd Brigade patrols the extensive Libyan-Egyptian border from Al Salam (Gate 60) to Jaghbub. Remarkably, the border totals a distance of 600 kilometers. Additionally, Colonel Al-Saadi prioritizes stopping criminal gangs in the Libyan desert to maintain security for Libya and its people.

Endowed with the authority to enforce regulations and laws within the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, the 152nd Brigade is equipped and prepared to combat smuggling activities. This ensures accountability for those involved in such illicit practices. Faced with persistent threats, this brigade remains resolute in its mission to safeguard the nation’s borders and uphold its integrity. [source] [source]

Commander: Colonel / Abdul Hakim Amazeb Al-Saadi
Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces- Tariq bin Ziyad Brigade
Headquarters: Ajdabiya

2. 106th Brigade

106th Brigade motto [source]

The 106th Brigade, also known as Awlia Aldem in Arabic, serves as a key military faction within the Libyan National Army. Remarkably, its command is held by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Initially formed as the 106th Battalion in 2016 from militias acting as Haftar’s personal security detail, it evolved into a full-fledged brigade by 2018 through amalgamation with various other units.

Furthermore, engaging in its first combat experience during the 2018 Battle of Derna, the brigade subsequently played roles in significant events such as the capture of Sabha in January 2019. Additionally, it was involved in the ill-fated Tripoli offensive in April of the same year. Notably, during this offensive, the unit encountered setbacks leading to numerous soldiers being captured by Government of National Accord forces. Additionally, the brigade garnered attention for its alleged involvement in the abduction of Libyan House of Representatives member Seham Sergiwa in Benghazi in July 2019. Recently, in May 2022, the 106th Brigade deployed to the Chad–Libya border region.

Commander: Khaled Haftar (son of Khalifa Haftar)
Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces
Headquarters: Rajmah, Libya

2.1 History and Disposition

The Libyan Arab Armed Force’s largest organization in terms of personnel, gear, and area of influence is Brigade 106. Initially, it began in 2014, when Haftar’s personal safety was its responsibility. Subsequently, it formally established itself as a battalion in 2016 and grew to become a brigade comprising at least ten battalions from Adjabiya and Benghazi in 2018.

Notably, Brigade 106 is a highly skilled military unit that occasionally relies on support from eastern tribes and Salafi organizations. Furthermore, since 2016, it has consistently received graduates from the military college. And, it has been well-supplied with weapons and equipment, fitting the impression of a contemporary force Haftar wishes to convey.

2.2 Al Karama Training Center

Al Karama Training Center motto [source]

The Al Karama Training Center, within the 106th Brigade of some armed groups in Benghazi, serves as a pivotal institution dedicated to the preparation and enhancement of military personnel. The center trains soldiers in combat readiness, fitness, and self-defense, creating highly skilled soldiers. Brigade leadership aims to enhance officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers, building a robust and resilient armed force.

The center’s new sports facility shows its commitment to holistic fitness. Further, the Al Karama Training Center enhances the Libyan military’s readiness. Ultimately, it ensures its preparedness to safeguard national security and uphold peace and stability within the region.

Commander: Khairy Al-Tamimi
Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces

3. 166th Battalion

166th Battalion motto [source]

Commander: Colonel Ayoub Al-Ferjani
Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces
Headquarters: Al-Berka,Benghazi, Libya

3.1 Activities

-Units from the 166th Infantry Brigade participated in searching for missing persons on the beaches and areas near Derna after Storm Daniel on September 5, 2023.

This comes in addition to their work in securing the Derna Gate and organizing the entry of relief convoys and rescue teams to contribute to alleviating the repercussions of the Mediterranean Storm “Daniel” crisis.

– On 14 January, Conclusion of the tactical course on the combat use of the M/D missile (Kornet) in the 166th Infantry Brigade. [source]

-On 21 November , the second batch – Special Tasks Course 1.7 – graduated from the 166th Infantry Brigade, after completing field training in storming, securing, and rescuing hostages.

The graduation ceremony witnessed the presence of the Chief of Staff of the security units and several officers of the 166th Infantry Brigade. [source]

-On 10 March, within the framework of continuous patrols, the reconnaissance company of the 166th Infantry Battalion launched its patrols from the city of Ajdabiya to Jalo and Al-Sarir, all the way to Al-Kafra. After that, the Subul_Al-Salam Battalion joined with it and carried out joint patrols on the borders linking neighboring countries. [source]

4. 302 Battalion

302 Battalion motto [source]

Commander: Issa Guesbsi
Ministry Affiliation: Chief of Staff of the Land Forces
Headquarter: X2R5+26, Benghazi, Libya

4.1 Activities

– On 8 November, Colonel Issa Dhawoud Al-Qabsi, Commander of the 302nd Thunderbolt Battalion, led a military delegation comprising officers, non-commissioned officers and field commanders on a strategic visit to the Marada region.

– On January 14, the 302nd Infantry Battalion gathered with key leaders, including the Chief of Staff of the Land Forces. High-ranking officials present included Lieutenant General Amraja’ Al-Amami, Major General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, and Brigadier General Hassan Al-Zadma. Other leaders included Brigadier General Omar Amraji, Brigadier General Ghazi Al-Shatiti, Brigadier General Ali Ableblo, and Brigadier General Amhamed Al-Jali. Colonel Anas Al-Zayani and several officers from the Armed Forces also attended.

The meeting was regarding the restructuring of the 302nd Battalion after it joined the Chief of Staff of the Ground Forces and its rearrangement and organization. [source]

5. Benghazi Security Battalion

Benghazi Security Battalion motto [source]

It is stationed at the headquarters of the “formerly Al-Fadil Bou Omar” battalion in Benghazi, under the command of Jaafar Omar Abd Rabbo. The “Al-Fadil Bou Omar” battalion was founded by Colonel Muammar Gaddafi.

Commander: Colonel Jaafar Omar
Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces
Headquarter: 4534+G53, Benghazi, Libya

5.1 Activities

– The third batch graduated from a special tasks course for members of the Benghazi Security Battalion. [source]

-On 28 January, Within the framework of raising the level of security and combat power among members of the Special Task Force of the Benghazi Security Battalion.

The force underwent training in a sniper course inside the battalion’s training center to fully prepare for any military orders. [source]

-On 13 January, the Benghazi Security Battalion, officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers participated in donating blood for the Red Crescent Blood Donation Unit. [source]

6. 155th Brigade

155th Brigade motto [source]

The 155th Infantry Brigade is stationed in the southern region. Sites belonging to the 155th Infantry Battalion in the Jabal Al-Akhdar area, east of Benghazi.

Commander: Mahdi Nour Eddine Cherif

Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces

Headquarter: Fourth Ring Rd Banghazi, Libya

6.1 Activities

On July 26, the 155th Infantry, stationed in the city of Al Bayda, caught a drug smuggler in possession of 15 large bags containing hallucinogenic Captagon pills during a large patrol on tankers. [source]

-Based on the decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces No. 170 of 2023 AD,
The name of the 155th Infantry Battalion was changed to (155th Infantry Brigade). [source]

– On 13 March 2023, following instructions from the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, the Al-Jawf commercial convoys, affiliated with Al-Watan Company, were set in motion. These convoys, safeguarded by the 155th Infantry Battalion and the Subul Al-Salam Battalion, commenced their journey from the arrival point at the Benghazi sea port to the Al-Jawf Free Zone in the city of Kufra. From there, they embarked on a mission to establish a commercial crossing line to Africa. Notably, this marks the first convoy since operations ceased in 2011.

7. 73rd Battalion

No photo description available. 73rd Battalion motto [source]

Commander: Ali Al-Qatani

Ministry Affiliation: Libyan Arab Armed Forces

Headquarter: 3338+4JM, Benghazi, Libya

7.1 Activities

– On 12 February, the 73rd Infantry Brigade and the Security Directorate of the Joint Security Room in Murzuq conducted a night march into the city of Murzuq for the Libyan Arab Armed Forces.

-On November 13, Major General Ali Saleh Al-Qatani, Commander of the 73rd Infantry Brigade, presided over a graduation ceremony for the Kornet and 120mm-81mm mortar trainees. However, the trainees passed both the theoretical test and the practical exam with a grade of 92% and received certificates of success upon completing the course. [source]

-On 20 July, The combat companies/608th Infantry Battalion of the 73rd Infantry Brigade concluded an intensive refresher course at the brigade’s training center in the Saluk area . Additionally, the course included dealing with light and medium weapons and mortar artillery of various sizes, simulating the defense situation and how to maintain medium weapons while the vehicle is moving and while stationed, in order to reach the highest level. [source],

8. Conclusion

The landscape of armed groups in Benghazi reveals a mosaic of power dynamics, historical affiliations, and strategic maneuvers within Libya’s fractured political and military landscape. Haftar’s forces, epitomized by entities like the Tariq Bin Ziyad Brigade, wield significant control over eastern Libya, exerting authority through a mixture of tribal allegiances and military prowess. Furthermore, this dominance is not without controversy; reports of egregious human rights violations tarnish their reputation and underscore the volatility of the region.

Ultimately, the armed groups of Benghazi represent microcosms of Libya’s larger struggle for stability and sovereignty. While some embody the dark underbelly of conflict with their alleged atrocities, others symbolize aspirations for order and progress within a fractured nation. Consequently, the interplay of these forces underscores the intricate challenges facing Libya as it navigates a path towards peace and reconciliation.

Furthermore, militant factions in Benghazi play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s dynamics, with entities like the Tariq Bin Ziyad Brigade exerting significant influence over eastern Libya. Despite their power, reports of human rights abuses tarnish their reputation and highlight the region’s volatility. Similarly, the 106th Brigade’s involvement in political incidents raises questions about their adherence to the rule of law. Amidst these complexities, institutions like the Al Karama Training Center strive to professionalize Libyan armed forces, offering a glimpse of hope amidst turmoil. In summary, the armed groups of Benghazi represent microcosms of Libya’s struggle for stability and sovereignty, underscoring the challenges ahead.