Bahroun Says His Forces Acted in Self-Defense in Surman Clashes

Mohammed Bahroun, known as “Al-Far” and commander of the Security Threats Unit, said his forces acted in self-defense during the armed clashes that erupted in Surman early Tuesday, rejecting claims they were the aggressors.

In a statement, Bahroun said his unit’s mission is to combat organized crime, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, fuel smuggling, and highway robbery. He claimed the unit’s headquarters and the Surman Security Directorate came under armed attack by groups linked to criminal networks, forcing his forces to respond.

He said the attackers’ headquarters was secured only to eliminate the threat before being handed over to the Tripoli based Government of National Unity authorities in coordination with military officials, stressing that his forces had no intention of seizing or controlling state institutions.

Bahroun called for an urgent, transparent, and independent investigation into the incident, urging authorities to hold those responsible accountable. He also stressed that his unit’s dispute was with criminal gangs, not the people of Surman or the western region, and called for unity in supporting state institutions and the fight against organized crime.