Libya conflict: NTC forces claim Bani Walid advance

Libya conflict: NTC forces claim Bani Walid advance

Bani Walid, one of the last towns still loyal to Col Muammar Gaddafi has been captured by forces loyal to Libya's interim authorities.

NTC military commanders said they met heavy resistance from Gaddafi loyalists in the town, some 170km southeast of Tripoli.

Meanwhile, fighting is continuing for Col Gaddafi's hometown of Sirte. Bulldozers in Tripoli have begun demolishing Col Gaddafi's castle-like Bab al-Aziziya compound.

Interim leaders said it was time "to tear down the symbol of tyranny."

Fresh assault

According to the National Transitional Council (NTC) commanders, troops have launched a fresh assault on the desert town of Bani Walid, though the extent of their advance into the desert town remains unclear.

After launching a barrage of artillery fire against the positions of pro-Gaddafi fighters, the fighters approached the town on Sunday from the north and south.

Some reports said the NTC forces reached the city centre, but these have not been verified.

While NTC forces surround Bani Walid, they have so far been unable to make a successful advance into the town due to resistance from some 1,500 Gaddafi loyalists believed to be there.

Sirte and Bani Walid are the two remaining towns in Libya resisting the rule of the NTC.

BBC/ Adekusibe/Ekata