Italian authorities have sparked significant outrage after the release of Libyan warlord Ossama Anjiem, also known as Ossama al-Masri, who was previously arrested on a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Al-Masri has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity stemming from his role at the notorious Reform and Rehabilitation Institution in Libya, where severe abuses have been documented. He was apprehended in Turin just after attending a Juventus-Milan soccer match but was released by a Rome appeals court citing procedural errors in the arrest process.

This decision has been met with fierce condemnation from Italian lawmakers and human rights advocates, who criticize the government’s handling of the case. Justice Minister Carlo Nordio faced scrutiny during a Senate hearing regarding his lack of communication regarding al-Masri’s release. He did not disclose details surrounding the decision or assert Italy's dedication to international justice, leading to statements of hypocrisy from opposition leaders.

Al-Masri’s release, facilitated by a flight organized by Italian secret services, allowed him to return to Libya where he was received with celebratory gestures from his supporters. Critics, including former Premier Matteo Renzi, pointed out the contradiction in Italy’s stance on human trafficking and its dealings with figures like al-Masri, highlighting the government’s apparent failure to act against individuals specified in ICC warrants.

Human rights organizations like Mediterranea Saving Humans have denounced the inconsistent application of justice, stressing that the release exemplifies complacency towards the documented horrors in Libyan detention facilities, notorious for their mistreatment of migrants. “Those of us who managed to survive had believed that it was really possible not only to gain justice but to prevent this criminal from acting undisturbed,” they stated.

Al-Masri’s return to Libya reflects ongoing concerns regarding the influence of armed militias on Italy’s migration policies. Activists claim that militias effectively hold leverage over Italy because they control migrant flows across the Mediterranean, thereby complicating Italy’s international legal obligations.

The ICC, which has previously issued numerous warrants for individuals connected to crimes in Libya, expressed its commitment to holding accountable those responsible for violence and abuse. However, al-Masri's name did not appear among the existing public warrants, although concerns linger regarding potential further actions from the court.

In light of the controversy, the European Commission reiterated EU member states’ obligations to cooperate with the ICC, emphasizing a collective commitment to combat impunity. This incident, however, raises pressing questions about Italy's role and responsibilities in addressing crimes against humanity committed in Libya's detention centers.

For more information, refer to the original articles on India Times and AP News.