Tripoli conditions ‘normalising’ for Corinthia

IHI said there had been a sharp increase in the demand for its services. Since the crisis broke out in February the hotel had been operating continually, albeit on a limited volume of occupancy.

Operations were carried out by expatriates and supported by Libyan personnel. “IHI is grateful to all its colleagues in Tripoli who ensured that the property was properly maintained and safeguarded.”

The company said the hotel was taking all the necessary security measures to ensure the safety of employees and clients and to preserve the integrity of the property. The property was the scene of a short gun battle between Libyan rebels and Gaddafi loyalists when the latter ran through the hotel’s gardens to escape a rebel attack.

Rebels also hunted down Col. Muammar Gaddafi and his sons in another Corinthia property before the deposed leader fled Tripoli. The Palm City residences in Janzour were the scene of another short battle, eyewitnesses told MaltaToday.

Mediterranean Investments Holdings said in a company announcement that the Corinthia-owned residences remained open and operating regardless of the difficulties encountered without shutting for even a single day.

“MIH is pleased to report that Palm City Residences have been very adequately secured and as additional employees are starting to report back to work, operations are gearing up in full swing in preparation for the influx of business that is expected in the coming weeks and months ahead.

“A number of Palm City tenants in addition to multinational corporations have already made contact with our management team in Tripoli, indicating that they are prepared to return to Tripoli shortly, whilst new clients are requesting to lease units with immediate effect.”