Global General

84 people killed in protests in Libya

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-02-20 11:01

Libyan pro-government supporters hold posters of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi during a demonstration in Tripoli February 17, 2011. [Photo/Agencies]

TUNIS - The security forces in Libya have killed at least 84 people during clashes with demonstrators over the past three days, Tunisian official agency TAP reported on Saturday, citing eye witnesses and medical sources.

Related readings:  27 people killed in Libya protests  Unrest in Libya sparks new troop deployment  Unrest continues in Middle East, North Africa  Egyptian protesters plan victory march

Protests broke out in several Libyan cities, particularly in the second largest city of Benghazi, where demonstrators called for political and economic reforms in the country ruled by Muammar Gaddafi for more than 40 years.

Earlier reports said that live ammunition has been used by the Libyan security forces against the protesters, and at least two policemen were killed in the clashes.

Two of Libya's neighbors, Tunisia and Egypt, have seen their former leaders ousted from power following popular protests against the regime.