NTC fighters launch attack on pro-Kadhafi forces in Sirte

Tripoli residents heard at least 12 blasts, reportedly caused by an explosion at a naval base’s munitions dump.

RFI/Anthony Terrade

Also in the capital National Transitional Council (NTC) head Mustafa Abdel Jalil said a transitional government will be announced within a week. The announcement was put off from last Sunday because of haggling over portfolios.

Meanwhile, NTC troops faced heavy rocket and machine-gun fire to launch a surprise assault on Sirte, where some of the last remaining forces loyal to Kadhafi have been holding out.

Using tanks and pickup trucks mounted with anti-aircraft guns, the NTC forces moved in a pincer movement and east cleared away roadblocks set up by Kadhafi forces and drove

THE BATTLE FOR LIBYA

toward the city centre.

Heavy fighting also raged in Bani Walid, the only other remaining pro-Kadhafi. Doctors reported that a total of 30 NTC troops have been killed so far on that front.