WEB DESK
UN-backed government in Libya has declared a state of emergency in Tripoli on Sunday after days of fighting left at least 39 people dead and dozens more injured.
“Due to the danger of the current situation and for the sake of the public interest, the presidential council declares the state of emergency in the capital, Tripoli, and its suburbs to protect and secure civilians, public and private possessions and vital institutions,” it said in a statement.
The government also called for militias to end the violence and respect a UN-brokered cease-fire.
Scores of people have been killed in ongoing clashes between rival militias vying for power. About 400 prisoners managed to escape from their detention facility by forcing the facility’s doors open during the fighting.
Ongoing clashes between warring groups broke out in the suburbs south of Tripoli on Monday. According to the health ministry, some 100 people have been wounded in the unrest.
Armed militias have been battling for control of the Libyan capital since the overthrow of dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. Jihadist groups, such as the so-called “Islamic State,” have also exploited the political turmoil and lawlessness to gain a foothold in the North African country.