Update: Death toll rises to 12 as clashes continue in Libya's Sirte

The death toll of the violent clashes between Libya dawn militias and the Islamic State (IS) affiliated militants in Libya's Sirte increased to 12 on Wednesday, according to a military source.

"IS affiliated elements carried a surprise offensive against a security site of our forces, particularly in the town of Nofaliya in Sirte District. Twelve people were killed after four of the injured died of their wounds," the source with Libya Dawn forces told Xinhua.

"IS also suffered great loss of life and mechanisms. Statistics of their losses will be provided in the coming hours," the source added on condition of anonymity.

Violent clashes broke out on Saturday between IS militants and forces of Libya Dawn in the city of Sirte.

Libya Dawn, which is consisted of armed Islamist groups, has recently tried to gain control of Sirte, a city 450 km east of the capital Tripoli.

The clashes are now focused in the areas of Hroah, al-Thahir, and Nofaliya in Sirte. The source pointed out that a plan was developed to prepare for a joint ground and air attack in the upcoming days in the town of Nofaliya, which is an important stronghold of the IS.

Libya has witnessed a drastic escalation of violence after the 2011 turmoil toppled former leader Muammar Gaddafi.

The Islamist militants and pro-secular militia have been vying for cities and towns for months, making a security havoc in the North African country.

Some IS affiliates have taken the chance and seized cities like Sirte and Derna. Endit