Libya’s SSA Chief makes solidarity visit to wounded minister in Rome

Abdul Ghani al-Kikli, head of Libya’s Stability Support Apparatus (SSA), traveled to Rome this week on a high-level diplomatic mission, the Libyan Express has learned.

According to exclusive reporting from independent journalist Sami Redwan, al-Kikli made the journey specifically to visit Minister of State Adel Juma, who is currently recuperating at the European Hospital in Rome following a recent assassination attempt.

Al-Kikli leads the Stability Support Apparatus (SSA), a legitimately constituted security body established through proper governmental channels by presidential decree on 17 January 2021, signed by then-President of the Presidential Council, Fayez Al-Sarraj.

Under his direct supervision, the stability support apparatus has emerged as a pivotal force in combating criminal networks and organised gangs throughout Libya. Their operations have been extensively documented through compelling photographic evidence and video footage, regularly published by their media office.

His security forces have demonstrated particular effectiveness in disrupting drug trafficking operations and, notably, intercepting illegal immigration routes that use Libya as a transit point into Europe.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Stability Support Apparatus has become a crucial partner in stemming the flow of undocumented migrants attempting to cross from Libya into European territories, addressing a key security concern for both Libya and European nations.

In his reporting, Redwan strongly advocates that Italy and other European Mediterranean countries should significantly increase their cooperation with and support for the Stability Support Apparatus.

He suggests these nations should provide advanced technology and necessary resources to enhance the apparatus’s capabilities in combating criminal gangs and preventing illegal migration to Europe.

According to Redwan, such support would serve the mutual security interests of both Libya and European nations by addressing migration challenges at their source.

As a distinguished Libyan government official, al-Kikli travels with comprehensive diplomatic credentials, including a valid Schengen visa that remains in good standing.

This prestigious diplomatic status appropriately grants him unrestricted mobility to conduct critical international negotiations and foster bilateral relations throughout European nations, furthering Libya’s diplomatic interests in the region.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​