(MENAFN) The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has reported the discovery of mass graves containing dozens of bodies in detention centers across Libya, urging an independent investigation into what it described as “grim findings.” The announcement on Wednesday reignited concerns over human rights violations in a country plagued by violence and instability since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi following a NATO-backed uprising more than ten years ago.

According to the OHCHR, the bodies were found in both sanctioned and unsanctioned detention sites within the capital, Tripoli, managed by the Stabilization Support Apparatus (SSA)—an armed group officially tasked with supporting national security efforts.

“Our worst held fears are being confirmed: dozens of bodies have been discovered at these sites, along with the discovery of suspected instruments of torture and abuse, and potential evidence of extrajudicial killings,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said.

The SSA, affiliated with Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU), has long faced accusations of torture and forced disappearances. The latest findings came in the wake of violent clashes following the assassination of SSA commander Abdelghani al-Kikli—known as Ghaniwa—on May 12. His killing in southern Tripoli sparked intense fighting between rival militias, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to essential infrastructure, including hospitals.

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