Residents of Zintan, a town in western Libya, have shut down critical oil distribution valves in a protest demanding the immediate release of Brigadier-General Mustafa Al-Whayshi, the abducted chief of the Central Security Department. The move has disrupted the country’s oil distribution network, further straining Libya’s fragile energy supply chain, according to the Anadolu News Agency.

The abduction of Brigadier-General Al-Whayshi earlier this week has sparked widespread outrage in Zintan. Concerned officials and residents have expressed fears for the security of the town and its surrounding areas. In response, the local community has turned to Libya’s oil industry—the backbone of the national economy—as a pressure tactic to demand action.

“We’re not going to reopen the valves until General Al-Whayshi is safely returned to his family,” said a protester who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The Ministry of Oil and Gas has urged local authorities to expedite negotiations for the General’s release, warning that prolonged disruptions to oil distribution could have serious economic repercussions.

The protest underscores the increasing volatility in Libya, where key infrastructure and resources are often leveraged as bargaining tools in disputes. While residents of Zintan hope their actions will expedite Al-Whayshi’s safe return, the shutdown adds another layer of instability to the country’s already strained energy sector.

Officials have yet to announce any progress in resolving the situation, leaving the future of Libya’s oil exports uncertain.