Rights groups in Libya have claimed that torture of suspected Gaddafi loyalists by Libyan militias is widespread.
Medicins San Frontiers, a medical charity, has ceased all operations in the country after it was asked to treat torture victims, sometimes between instances of torture.
"Some officials have sought to exploit and obstruct MSF's medical work," says MSF General Director Christopher Stokes.
"Patients were brought to us for medical care between interrogation sessions, so that they would be fit for further interrogation. This is unacceptable. Our role is to provide medical care to war casualties and sick detainees, not to repeatedly treat the same patients between torture sessions."
"My staff have received alarming reports that this is happening in places of detention they have visited."
The UN has expressed concern over the claims, blaming the government for failing to bring militias under state control and to stop widespread abuses committed by those forces.
"The majority of detainees are accused of being Gaddafi loyalists and include a large number of sub-saharan, African nationals," said UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay.
"The lack of oversight by the central authority creates an environment conducive to torture and ill treatment.”
