76 people killed since clashes: Libyan official

By Walid Abdullah

TRIPOLI (AA) - The UN-backed Government of National Accords (GNA) announced Monday that at least 76 people, including 24 civilians, were killed since clashes erupted in the surroundings of capital Tripoli early this month.

The figures were announced at a joint news conference of GNA ministers, including Foreign Minister Mohamed Sayala.

Sayala went on to note that around 400 people were injured since the start of the fierce battles.

Since April. 4, Khalifa Haftar, who commands forces loyal to East Libya-based government, launched a military campaign to capture Tripoli, where the GNA is based.

Sayala said that the lives of civilians in the capital Tripoli "have been subject to air raids and the use of internationally prohibited weapons."

He also confirmed that pro-Haftar forces "have recruited children among their ranks."

Sayala pointed out that his ministry had submitted notes to the UN Security Council on "violations" being committed by pro-Haftar forces.

Since the 2011 ouster of late President Muammar Gaddafi, two seats of power have emerged in Libya: one in eastern Libya, and another in Tripoli, which enjoys UN support.