AhlulBayt News Agency

source : AFP
Monday

15 August 2011

7:30:00 PM
259815

Libyan fighters seize parts of Zawiyah

Libyan fighters have taken control of some parts of the strategic town of Zawiyah as deadly battles with forces loyal to the country's ruler Muammar Gaddafi continue.

(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Bashir Ahmed Ali, the commander of revolutionary forces in the Zawiyah battle said on Sunday, "Our forces are in control of the western and southern gates of Zawiyah, and have pushed three kilometers (1.8 miles) into the city".

Ali added, "Regime forces are in control of the east and main centre of the town, where snipers are stationed on top of many buildings”.

The strategic town lies about 50 kilometers (32 miles) west of the capital Tripoli, which remains to be Gaddafi's stronghold.

Heavy fighting was also reported in the town of Garyan, which controls the southern access to Tripoli.

Government spokesman Moussa Ibrahim has rejected the fighters' claims, saying Zawiyah and Garyan are under “full control” of regime forces.

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