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11 army soldiers killed by militants in Libya's Derna

Xinhua, February 4, 2015 Adjust font size:

A total of 11 army soldiers were killed and about 25 others injured during the last 24 hours in battles against militants in eastern Libya's Derna city, said army spokesperson.

"Fierce battles between the Libyan army and Islamist militants took place after the army on Monday attempted to break into the militant-controlled city," said army spokesperson colonel Ahmed Al-Mismari.

Medium and light weapons were used in the heavy fighting in Sidi Khaled area, east of the city of Derna, Al-Mismari said, adding that "the militants suffered heavy losses of lives and machinery."

The Libyan army imposes a security cordon on the city of Derna from all sides, while the area of Ain Mara in eastern Derna experienced violent clashes between army troops and militants of the "Mujahideen Shura council of Derna city."

On Dec. 12, 2014, the formation of "Mujahideen Shura council of Derna city" was announced. It includes Islamist fighters to guard against any possible attacks by the Libyan army and forces of retired Major General Khalifa Haftar on the city.

Derna is out of the control of the government forces and is dominated by militant groups loyal to the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. Endit