A football match between Tripoli's Al-Ittihad and Misrata's Swehly at Tarhuna stadium was suspended in the 87th minute after a disputed penalty decision on Thursday evening, May 15 [1, 2, 3, 4].
Following the suspension, Al-Ittihad fans stormed the pitch, clashing with stadium security and causing injuries to several guards, who were evacuated to hospital with head, leg, and hand wounds [1, 2, 3, 4]. An eyewitness described the scene as "very chaotic, with thick smoke rising into the sky, and cars in the area trying to leave before things got worse because the fans were very angry" [1].
The unrest escalated as many Al-Ittihad supporters marched approximately 65 to 80 kilometers from Tarhuna to Tripoli and targeted the Government of National Unity (GNU) headquarters building. They set fire to parts of the building's facade and garden, though some reports indicate the prime minister's office and nearby government offices were also damaged [1, 2, 3, 4]. Firefighters brought the blaze under control around midnight, while GNU forces secured the area to prevent further violence [1, 2, 3].
Vehicles at the stadium, including a Libya Sport TV broadcast vehicle and security cars, were also set ablaze during the riots [4].
Al-Ittihad football club called for "a comprehensive review of all refereeing decisions during the match," blaming officials for both the suspension and subsequent unrest [1, 2, 4]. Meanwhile, Swehly claimed to be "heading back to Misrata crowned with victory" following the match's termination [1].
The Libyan Presidential Council urged an investigation into the incidents, emphasizing that grievances must be addressed legally rather than through violence [3].
The Tarhuna stadium is located roughly 65 to 80 km southeast or south of Tripoli, with sources differing on the exact distance and direction [1, 2, 3, 4].
Several security personnel remain hospitalized with injuries from the clashes, and GNU authorities continue efforts to restore order in Tripoli following the fire and protests.
