Additional Coverage:
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has heard disturbing allegations against Khaled Mohamed Ali El Hishri, a former prison official dubbed the “Angel of Death.” The 47-year-old faces serious charges including rape and murder of detainees at the notorious Mitiga prison in Libya between 2015 and 2020.
According to the court proceedings, El Hishri is accused of committing 17 crimes against humanity and war crimes, with some acts allegedly taking place in front of the prisoners’ children. The facility, controlled by local militias, has a grim reputation for torture, unlawful detention, and widespread human rights abuses. Prosecutors say nearly 1,000 victims are linked to these allegations.
El Hishri, who wore a blue suit and tie during the hearing, reportedly served as a senior commander overseeing the women’s wing of the prison, where sexual violence was commonplace. Prosecutors also detailed his habit of carrying a firearm and inflicting injuries on inmates by shooting them in the legs or knees.
This hearing represents a preliminary stage where prosecutors present their evidence; judges now have 60 days to determine whether there is sufficient cause to proceed with a full trial. If so, El Hishri would be the first Libyan to stand trial at the ICC.
El Hishri was arrested in Germany last July and extradited to the Netherlands in December. Meanwhile, the ICC continues to seek nine other Libyan suspects, including Ossama Anjiem, also known as Ossama al-Masri, linked to crimes at Mitiga prison. Anjiem’s release in Italy due to a legal technicality sparked public outrage.
Italian political figures have voiced strong criticism over the handling of such cases, with former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi condemning the government’s approach as hypocritical for failing to properly detain dangerous individuals wanted by the ICC.
As the ICC deliberates, the world watches closely, hoping for justice for the victims of one of Libya’s most brutal detention centers.