Libya confirms killing of Gaddafi's son, investigation launched

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the most famous son of the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, has been killed, according to sources close to the family, his lawyer, and local media.

According to the Libyan Attorney General's Office, investigators and forensic doctors examined his body and concluded that he died as a result of gunshot wounds. The authorities also announced that they are working to identify the suspects and are preparing steps towards criminal proceedings.

Before 2011, Saif al-Islam was one of the most influential figures in the regime and played a significant role in shaping the country's politics. However, after his father's fall, his public influence gradually waned. In 2015, a Libyan court sentenced him in absentia to death for his role in suppressing protests during the revolution.

At the same time, he faced charges from the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity. In 2021, he attempted a return to the political scene by running for president, but the elections never took place due to a political stalemate.

(reuters, mja)