Gaddafi forces try to retake seized city

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi (C) leans on ouster Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak (R) and Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh (L) seen in this group picture dated October 10, 2010

Source: Press TV
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/165888.html

Authorities have reportedly sealed off the restive Libyan city of al-Baida hours after Pro-democracy protesters took control over the region.

Clashes erupted after government militias were deployed in the area following the incident to retake the city on Friday. Two exiled Libyan groups say the takeover came after some local police joined the protesters.

Meanwhile, police have killed at least three convicts as they tried to escape from El-Jedaida prison near the capital Tripoli.

Witnesses say there have been renewed scuffles between protesters and police forces in the city of Benghazi

The plainclothes police and snipers have vowed a sharp response to the protesters seeking an end to the long rule of Muammar Gaddafi.

The government supporters have called for tough action against the protesters.

"The people's power, the Jamahiriya [system of rule], the revolution, and Colonel Gaddafi are all red lines and those who try to cross or come near these lines are suicidal and playing with fire," a leading pro-government newspaper, Al-Zahf Al-Akhdar, said.

The opposition has accused the government of arming African migrants in the north to shoot pro-democracy protesters.

The developments come as Libyans have taken to the streets across the country on what they call the "day of anger."

The opposition says at least 30 people were killed in the crackdown. According to medical sources, 14 died in Libya's second-largest city, Benghazi.

Human rights group Amnesty International has also urged the Libyan government to stop its crackdown on peaceful demonstrations.

Meanwhile Gaddafi's supporters have held a pro-government rally in the capital, Tripoli. The 63-year-old leader, who has ruled the country for 41 years, reportedly attended the rally.