Death toll rises with clashes in Libyan city of Benghazi
- 10 years ago
In the city of Benghazi at least nine people have been killed and almost fifty wounded in clashes between Libyan troops and militants, according to local officials.
It’s reported that the fighting broke out when an army special forces unit pursued a suspect into an area where Islamist militant group Ansar al-Sharia operates its own checkpoints.
Gunfire and explosions were heard and witnesses say the army advised people to stay off the streets.
Ansar al-Sharia was blamed for the attack on the US consulate in Benghazi a year ago when the US ambassador and three other Americans were killed.
Analysts say Libya’s new military is struggling to curb militants and militias who fought in the uprising against Muammar Gaddafi. Many have refused to disarm and control parts of the country.
Rival groups withdrew from Tripoli last week when protesters demanded they leave the city.
It’s reported that the fighting broke out when an army special forces unit pursued a suspect into an area where Islamist militant group Ansar al-Sharia operates its own checkpoints.
Gunfire and explosions were heard and witnesses say the army advised people to stay off the streets.
Ansar al-Sharia was blamed for the attack on the US consulate in Benghazi a year ago when the US ambassador and three other Americans were killed.
Analysts say Libya’s new military is struggling to curb militants and militias who fought in the uprising against Muammar Gaddafi. Many have refused to disarm and control parts of the country.
Rival groups withdrew from Tripoli last week when protesters demanded they leave the city.