Libya: Clashes in Benghazi kill 5, say officials

Tripoli: Libyan officials say clashes in the eastern city of Benghazi have killed five people and wounded 17. Hospital spokeswoman Fadya al-Barghathi says the city’s al-Jalaa hospital received the bodies of four soldiers and one civilian. She says 17 wounded, including 13 soldiers, were admitted for treatment. [caption id=“attachment_1248897” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  A Libyan army soldier stands guard sitting on an antiaircraft truck during the handover of the Nawaseen military compound, which was the headquarters of Libyan militias. AP [/caption] A security official says clashes erupted early Monday between armed citizens and members of the dissolved Ansar al-Shariah, an Islamic militant group. The fighting prompted the army’s special forces to step in to quell the violence. Sounds of explosions and gunfire echoed mainly in the city’s Raas Obeida district and surrounding areas. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations. Mohammed Abu Sneina of Benghazi’s local council warned it would take stern measures against whoever disturbs the city’s peace and security. AP