Tunisia and Libya have shut down a major border crossing at Ras Jedir due to violent clashes, according to Tunisian state television and Libyan authorities.
Libya’s interior ministry said in a statement on Tuesday that “outlaws” stormed the border, which sees a considerable flow of Libyans, many of whom travel to Tunisia for medical treatment, as well as vehicles carrying products in the opposite direction.
“This action carried out by these outlaw groups will not be tolerated, and legal measures and the most severe penalties will be taken against those involved,” the Tripoli-based ministry said, without providing any other information.
The principal crossing point between the two North African countries is the border station in the desert location of Ras Jedir, which is roughly 170 kilometres (105 miles) from Libya’s capital Tripoli.
According to local media, armed confrontations broke out on Monday night between armed groups controlling Ras Jedir and security personnel dispatched by Tripoli.
On Monday, Libyan Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi authorised the ministry’s “law enforcement department” to act in Ras Jedir to “combat smuggling and security violations” and allow travel.
Tunisia’s Tataouine Radio reported late on Monday that the bridge was closed for the protection of individuals travelling to Libya.
For years, groups from border cities have dominated Ras Jedir, benefiting from the rich parallel border trade.
Thousands of Tunisian families in the south also make money from the trade.
Libya has been insecure since a 2011 NATO-backed rebellion overthrew longstanding ruler Muammar Gaddafi, and it is divided into eastern and western sections, with opposing administrations administering each region.