The real dangerous work of the ICRC, Swiss worker killed in Libya

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – A Swiss humanitarian worker was killed in Libya on 4 June as a result of an armed attack.

The victim identified as Michael Greub, 42, worked as head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Misrata, one of the few humanitarian organizations working on the ground in what is still considered as one of most dangerous places for relief organizations.

According to the Geneva-based ICRC, the victim was attacked at gun point in the city of Sirte.

In a communiqué, the ICRC vigorously condemned the attack:

“The ICRC vigorously condemns this heinous attack,” said Director-General Yves Daccord in a statement released to the press.

“We are devastated and outraged,” he added. “Michael was a devoted humanitarian who spent many years of his life helping others.”

The victim was leaving a meeting with two colleagues when their vehicle was targeted by gun fire. The two other persons were unharmed.

Greub worked for the ICRC in Iraq, Sudan, Yemen, and Gaza and was posted to Misrata in March 2014.

The ICRC has had a permanent presence in Libya since 2011 when the Libyan revolution ousted Colonel Muammar Gaddafi from government and has since announced it will suspend operations – but not leave – as a result of the attack.