ICC unseals Libya war‑crimes warrant for militia officer

International Criminal Court Unseals Arrest Warrant for Libyan Militia Leader

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has now made public an arrest warrant issued under seal for Saif Suleiman Sneidel, a Libyan militia member suspected of serious war crimes between 2016 and 2017.

Grounds for War Crimes Allegation

• The ICC prosecutor’s office stated there were “reasonable grounds to believe” Sneidel was responsible for murder, torture and outrages upon personal dignity.
• The November 2020 warrant alleged Sneidel participated in three executions totaling 23 murders in Benghazi and surrounding areas.
• The alleged crimes were carried out on or before June 3, 2016 until about July 17, 2017.

Why the Warrant Remained Sealed?

The ICC prosecutor’s office explained the warrant had been issued under seal to maximise arrest opportunities and to minimise risks to the criminal investigation. Consequently, no details of the application or warrant were provided until the decision to publicise.

Deputy Prosecutor’s Statement

Deputy prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan said: “We hope to create momentum for Sneidel’s arrest and surrender.” She added that the Court can now discuss possible arrest issues with states, the UN Security Council, and the international community at large, fostering support and cooperation.

Background on Sneidel’s Militia Unit

• Sneidel is believed to have served in Group 50, a sub‑unit of the Al‑Saiqa Brigade led by the late Libyan commander Mahmoud Mustafa Busayf Al‑Werfalli.
• Prior to Al‑Werfalli’s death, he was subject to two ICC arrest warrants for eight executions in Benghazi. The prosecution alleges Sneidel took part in three of those executions.
• The ICC has been investigating atrocities in Libya since 2011, following a referral from the United Nations Security Council.

Recent Developments

On July 16, 2025, German authorities arrested another Libyan suspect, Khaled Mohamed Ali El Hishri, for war crimes and crimes against humanity. He remains in custody in Germany pending legal proceedings.

Libya’s Ongoing Instability

Since the overthrow and death of former dictator Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has faced years of instability, militia violence, and a fractured government.

Key Takeaways

• ICC unseals arrest warrant for Saif Suleiman Sneidel on allegations of murder and torture.
• Warrant was sealed to maximise arrest opportunities and minimise investigation risks.
• Deputy prosecutor aims to create momentum for Sneidel’s arrest and gather international support.
• Recent arrest of Khaled Mohamed Ali El Hishri demonstrates ICC’s continued effort to hold Libyan suspects accountable.
• Libya’s instability remains a backdrop for ongoing ICC investigations.