The Central Bank of Libya has suspended all operations following the kidnapping of its IT director, Musab Msallem, who was abducted from his home by an unidentified group.

The abduction occurred on Sunday morning, raising significant concerns about the safety of bank employees amid ongoing threats.

The bank announced it will not resume operations until Msallem is released, as other executives have also reported receiving threats of kidnapping.

This suspension follows a siege at the bank's headquarters the previous week, where armed men attempted to force the resignation of bank governor Seddik al-Kabir.

The Central Bank condemned the mafia-like tactics employed by unlawful groups and called for an end to the threats against its employees.

Governor Seddik al-Kabir, who has been in office since 2012, has faced criticism over the management of Libya's oil resources and state budget.

U.S. diplomat Richard Norland warned that attempts to forcibly change the bank's senior management could jeopardize Libya's access to international financial markets.

As the only internationally recognized entity for Libya's oil revenues, the Central Bank plays a crucial role in the country's economy amid ongoing conflicts.

Libya remains politically divided between a UN-recognized government in Tripoli and a rival administration in the east backed by military leader Khalifa Haftar.

Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has experienced chronic insecurity and ongoing power struggles.

The UN support mission in Libya has emphasized the Central Bank's crucial role in maintaining the country's financial stability.