Clashes erupted between two armed groups in Tajoura on Friday, marked by gunfire from light and medium weapons before and during Friday prayers. Residents in the area are currently experiencing heightened anxiety due to the violence.
According to local sources speaking to Al-Wasat Gate, the conflict involves the “Rabeh al-Duroo” Brigade, led by Khalifa Bashir Khalifa, known as “Bashir the Cow,” and the “Sabriya” Brigade. Both groups are major armed factions based in Tajoura, a district located ten kilometers east of Tripoli and adjacent to the Mitiga Airbase and airport.
Similar clashes occurred between these factions in mid-July, resulting in civilian casualties and other material damage.
Residents are concerned about the potential escalation of violence, particularly given that Tajoura’s coast features villages and tourist resorts frequented by many, especially during the official Friday holiday.
Last Month, A member of the Council of Elders and Notables of Al-Zawiya, Hussein Al-Maghrabi, has reported that the recent clashes between armed groups in the city resulted in 13 injuries.
Al-Maghrabi, speaking in a televised statement, explained that the clashes erupted due to tensions between youth affiliated with a security entity under the Ministry of Interior and youth from the General Staff. He noted that the situation in the city is currently calm after the clashes that took place yesterday.
Al-Zawiya, a city west of Tripoli, has been a hotspot for various armed factions vying for control. The recent skirmish is the latest in a series of conflicts impacting the region. According to Al-Maghrabi, local authorities are making efforts to maintain peace and prevent further violence.
The recent clashes highlight the fragile security situation in Al-Zawiya. The city’s strategic location has made it a focal point for rival groups seeking influence. Despite the calm reported by Al-Maghrabi, the potential for renewed violence remains.
In response to the clashes, local security forces have been deployed to key areas to monitor and manage the situation. Residents of Al-Zawiya have expressed concern over the recurring violence and its impact on their daily lives. The city’s infrastructure has suffered from the ongoing conflict, further exacerbating the living conditions of its inhabitants.
Efforts to mediate between the conflicting groups are ongoing. Community leaders and local authorities are urging for dialogue to address the underlying issues and restore stability. The international community continues to monitor the situation, with calls for a peaceful resolution gaining momentum.
As Al-Zawiya strives for stability, the recent clashes serve as a reminder of the complexities facing Libya. The nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of years of conflict and political instability. The path to peace remains fraught with challenges, but efforts at the local level offer a glimmer of hope
