Libya Threatens Death Penalty for People Caught Using Satellite Phones

The incumbent Libyan government has issued a warning that the use of an unauthorized satellite phone will result in the user being treated as if they are a spy working for the NATO military alliance.

Anyone caught with a Thuraya phone, one of the easiest to buy in the country, would be charged with collaborating with the enemy, and may face the death penalty. "Any citizen who owns a device of the Thuraya brand must carry a permit allowing its use according to the laws and regulations in force," the official JANA news agency reported.