Rival militant groups clash in Tripoli, eight killed

Forces loyal to the Libyan National Army advance toward the area of Qanfudah, south of Benghazi, in Libya, November 30, 2016. (Photo by AFP)

At least eight people have been killed in heavy clashes between rival militant groups in neighborhoods across the Libyan capital of Tripoli.

The clashes occurred on Thursday, when armed groups mobilized heavy weapons, tanks, and trucks and took up positions in several parts of the city. Gunshots and explosions could be heard as they engaged in clashes.

It was not immediately specifically clear what militia groups were fighting, and why. But Tripoli has been the scene of frequent clashes between militants, who hold effective power across the capital, since 2011.

Militants from different political and religious factions have been fighting for power since a NATO military intervention followed the 2011 uprising that led to the toppling and killing of former dictator Muammar Gaddafi.

Five years after the fall of Gadhafi, the oil-rich country is still embroiled in violence and political chaos.

The Government of National Accord (GNA), which is recognized as the legitimate Libyan government by the Unite Nations, took office in March with the hopes of reuniting the warring sides of the conflict and stemming a threat from the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in the country.

Its rule has however been hampered by continued rivalry among the militant groups.

Two other, self-proclaimed governments rule parts of Libya, the so-called National Salvation Government in the west and another in the east of the country.