A Maltese businessman has been under arrest in Libya for just over a week, caught up in the controversy between that country's rival governments over the recognition of visas.

Informed sources said the man is in the area controlled by the (internationally recognised) Tobruk government. He was arrested on arrival after using a visa issued by the administration in Tripoli.

It is understood that the man has travelled to Libya several times, mostly because of links in Misurata. Efforts are underway to secure his release. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ advice against travel to Libya is still in force.

In a statement, the government said it was closely following the case and was also in contact with the man's family. Another person, not necessarily Maltese, may also be under arrest with the man. They are in the town of Labrak.

The government urged people to heed its travel advice and exercise caution in Libya.

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