A mass prison break unfolded in western Libya on Tuesday as inmates fled Surman prison amid intense fighting between rival armed groups in the nearby cities of Surman and Zawiya, west of the capital, Tripoli. The Judicial Police Authority confirmed the escape and launched an investigation, though it has not disclosed how many prisoners remain at large. A committee has been formed to identify the fugitives and coordinate their recapture.
The violence has claimed at least three civilian lives and left several others injured, according to Salem Bahr, a local leader who appeared on Libya Al-Ahrar television. Bahr urged an immediate halt to the hostilities, warning that “everyone who wins in this situation loses.” The identities of the warring factions and the triggers for the clashes remain unclear.
Fighting spread to Zawiya, which hosts Libya’s largest operational oil refinery, with a production capacity of 120,000 barrels per day. The Azzawiya Oil Company advised staff to steer clear of affected zones and exercise maximum caution as security deteriorated. Unverified footage circulating online showed thick black smoke billowing over both cities and the sound of sustained gunfire.
Surman Mayor Mohamed Abu Snina described the humanitarian situation as “very bad,” citing significant damage to property and infrastructure. He said a neutral force has since been deployed, bringing a measure of calm to the area.
Libya has grappled with chronic instability since the 2011 uprising that ousted longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi. Despite repeated political initiatives aimed at unification, rival armed groups retain substantial influence across the country. Periodic outbreaks of violence continue to endanger civilians and threaten critical infrastructure, underscoring the fragility of the nation’s security landscape. Authorities have yet to provide a full accounting of the escapees or a timeline for restoring full control over the affected areas.
