A new report suggests that an illegal trade in arms is growing on social media sites such as Facebook in Libya. From used data collected by Armament Research Services (ARES) over 18 months, the Small Arms Survey, showed that sales ranged from handguns to rocket-propelled grenades, with most offered on closed or secret groups. Under Colonel Muammar Gaddafi weapons were amassed but the market was tightly controlled. Following the end of his regime in 2011, the stockpiles were opened and a black market in armaments emerged. The report, titled “Libyan Weapons Market: An Analysis of Social Media Sources”, says there are now more than 100 groups operating online selling weapons, including some who have been banned for using child soldiers. The most popular items are handguns and rifles, with a Kalashnikov selling on average for LYD1.8k ($1,300).
A new report suggests that an illegal trade in arms is growing on social media sites such as Facebook in Libya. From used data collected by Armament Research Services (ARES) over 18 months, the Small Arms Survey, showed that sales ranged from handguns to rocket-propelled grenades, with most offered on closed or secret groups. Under Colonel Muammar Gaddafi weapons were amassed but the market was tightly controlled. Following the end of his regime in 2011, the stockpiles were opened and a black market in armaments emerged. Researchers have suggested that the sellers began using social media in 2013, and that the market is growing. The most popular items are handguns and rifles, with a Kalashnikov selling on average for LYD1.8k ($1,300).