The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemned the threats made by Al-Taher Erwa and Mohamemd Abu Daraa “A.K.A. Al-Sandouk” against the Minister-designate of Finance Faraj Bumatari, describing them as “armed group members.”
“This deplorable act constitutes a serious blow to the rule of law. The Mission expresses its full support to the competent authorities’ decision to identify and prosecute the perpetrators and stands ready to provide all necessary support to state institutions and officials in their quest to serve the Libyan people through the full implementation of rule of law.” UNSMIL said on Monday.
A letter signed on September 26 was circulated on social media – which 218News couldn’t verify – said the Interior Minister-designate of the Government of National Accord Fathi Bashagha ordered the arrest of prominent Nawasi Brigade leaders, Al-Taher Erwa and Mohamed Abu Daraa “A.K.A. Al-Sandouk” for attacking the office of the Minister-designate of Finance Faraj Bumatari.
Last June, the Interpol put Al-Sandouk – prominent Nawasi Brigade commander and right hand to the commander of the Nawasi Brigade Mustafa Gaddour – on Red Notice for unlawful use of Libyan assets.
Al-Sandouk is in control of Libyan investments and he is wanted by Belgium for involvement in misuse of Libayn frozen assets. He controls Tripoli Tower as he has an office there to extort companies and banks to receive letters of credit for his and Gaddour’s firms.
He was also seen on Khalit Al-Furjan frontline in southern Tripoli. He is a close friend of Haitham Al-Tajouri.
Al-Sandouk used to head Libay’s health attaché in Hungary during February revolution in 2011. He has an Italian residence permit and good connections with its government.
Meanwhile, the UN panel of experts’ report in 2018 mentioned Nawasi Brigade as forcing the Libyan Investment Authority to appoint one of its members using threats and intimidation.
