Death toll from Libyan clashes rises to five, 97 wounded in Tripoli

Published June 27th, 2013 - 12:03 GMT
Libyan state security forces known as the "National Mobile Forces" patroling the street with the help of local rebels who know the Tripoli area, Novemeber 2012 (File photo: AFP)
Libyan state security forces known as the "National Mobile Forces" patroling the street with the help of local rebels who know the Tripoli area, Novemeber 2012 (File photo: AFP)

Five people have been killed and nearly 100 injured as clashes between rival militias in the Libyan capital Tripoli continued into a second night, Health Minister Nurideen Doghman said, as reported by Reuters.

Gunfire and explosions were heard late into the night, highlighting the deep divisions between armed groups that have marked the post-Gaddafi era in Libya. The government has failed to assert real power over the rival groups.

“In total 97 people were wounded and five were killed in yesterday’s clashes,” Doghman told state television, as quoted by Reuters.

Violence also erupted in the southern town of Sabha on Wednesday, when a string of car bombs exploded, leaving two people dead and 17 injured.

“Some of the injured will be transferred to Tripoli because their condition is critical,” he said.

The violence in Tripoli began on Tuesday morning when a local militia attacked the headquarters of the national force established to guard oil facilities. 

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