Libya Football Violence Leaves Several Injured After Government Building Ablaze

Violence Erupts in Libyan Town After Football Match Dispute

A dispute over a penalty kick during a football match between two teams from different cities in Libya led to clashes between supporters and security forces. The incident occurred on Thursday in the town of Tarhuna, approximately 80 kilometers south of Tripoli.

The game, which was held behind closed doors, was suspended shortly before its conclusion due to a disagreement over a penalty kick awarded to one team. The players from Al-Ittihad SCSC protested the decision, leading to fights between supporters and security personnel outside the stadium.

Separate incidents also occurred in the capital city of Tripoli. A government building was set on fire at the council of ministers’ headquarters, according to reports. The Libyan Presidential Council has announced an investigation into the events, stating that they will look into the circumstances surrounding the dispute and the subsequent violence.

The council has called for calm and urged that feelings of injustice be addressed through legal means rather than resorting to violence. The fire at the council’s headquarters was reportedly quickly contained.

Source: Al Jazeera