Libyan tanks aim to smash Sirte resistance
- 13 years ago
Smoke rises from a once-residential area of Sirte as the battle for Gaddafi's hometown rages on.
Libyan government forces brought more tanks into the city on Friday to break down last pockets of resistance by Gaddafi loyalists.
They say the loyalists now only control a small residential area just one and a half kilometres wide.
But despite being surrounded on all sides Gaddafi's remaining forces continute to inflict dozens of casualties with rocket-propelled grenades, mortars and small arms.
Snipers pose a particular threat for government forces.
NTC officers say loyalists fear reprisals if they give themselves up.
While the NTC tightens its grip on the city, the lenghty battle has cost scores of lives and left thousands homeless.
It has also held up the attemt by Libya's new leaders to establish a democratic government.
Sunita Rappai, Reuters
Libyan government forces brought more tanks into the city on Friday to break down last pockets of resistance by Gaddafi loyalists.
They say the loyalists now only control a small residential area just one and a half kilometres wide.
But despite being surrounded on all sides Gaddafi's remaining forces continute to inflict dozens of casualties with rocket-propelled grenades, mortars and small arms.
Snipers pose a particular threat for government forces.
NTC officers say loyalists fear reprisals if they give themselves up.
While the NTC tightens its grip on the city, the lenghty battle has cost scores of lives and left thousands homeless.
It has also held up the attemt by Libya's new leaders to establish a democratic government.
Sunita Rappai, Reuters