Libyan Ports, Lybian oil, Steamship Mutual, Home Publications Articles Libya: Risks for tanker owners and crew when trading in Libya Libya: Risks for tanker owners and crew when trading in Libya Publications Steamship Mutual Published: May 31, 2018 Contact author Download article pdf Image Club correspondents Shtewi Legal and Pandi Services of Tripoli have recently updated the Club about the risks involved in trading with Libya. Since the fall of the Gadaffi regime and the subsequent formation of a Government recognised by the UN, there have been reports that certain factions have been taking advantage of the uncertain political climate and have been engaged in selling government oil assets on the black market. The legitimate Government based in Tripoli is determined to stop this practice and to take measures against any vessel and crew thought to be involved in such operations. Tankers suspected of being en route to a clandestine loading port are at risk of being boarded by the Libyan Navy, and the crew and vessel being seized and taken to Tripoli to await a further investigation, which may lead to a trial. The Libyan legal system operates very slowly, and the investigation itself could take up to two years. There have been reports of crewmembers being held in custody for over 2 years without any prospect of imminent release. During the course of investigations, the vessels involved remain at anchor. There is a case pending where a vessel, having discharged fuel oil in October 2017, dropped anchor in the Gulf of Sirte awaiting orders. The vessel was then seized by the Libyan Navy and the crew removed. The vessel was then taken to Tripoli, where it remains. Shtewi Legal and Pandi acting for the owners were able to obtain the release of the crew who were flown back to the Philippines. However, the officers are still detained in prison. Despite many representations to the Prosecutors office there is still no date set for the trial or even any indication whether a tria