February 17th Martyrs Brigade

The February 17th Martyrs Brigade is an Islamist militia active in Libya. It is considered to be the largest and best armed militia in eastern Libya. The brigade is financed by the Libyan defense ministry. The brigade consists of at least 12 battalions and possesses a large collection of light and heavy weapons in addition to training facilities. Its membership is estimated at between 1,500 and 3,500. The group has carried out various security and law and order tasks in eastern Libya and Kufra in the south. Some of its members are also believed to be fighting the Assad regime in Syria.