Lebanese soldiers deployed at al-Nour square, Tripoli, North Lebanon, Jan. 31, 2021. (Credit: Fathi al-Masri/AFP)
BEIRUT — A man shot and killed his relative on Monday in Bebnine, Tripoli, North Lebanon, L'Orient Today's correspondent in the region reported.
Triggered by previous family disputes, a man from the Shayboub family, residents of Wadi al-Jamous in Tripoli, fatally shot his cousin in Bebnine.
Security forces arrived at the scene and launched an investigation.
Gun violence is a significant security issue in Lebanon, especially in its northern areas, where there is a wide proliferation of firearms. Easy access to firearms in times of tension and anger greatly increases the likelihood of confrontations becoming deadly. Several gunfights have erupted in Akkar over the past few months between members of feuding families.
In late 2022, caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi announced a "sustainable" security plan for North Lebanon, in response to the high number of deadly shootings in Tripoli. However, security incidents continue to occur in the city at a concerning level.
Reporting contributed by Michel Hallak