A group of former Libyan rebels armed with tanks have seized Tripoli's international airport and are demanding the release of one of their leaders, Al Arabiya news agency reported on Monday.
The airport was seized by the al-Awfea Brigade, which is drawn from the town of Tarhouna, 80 km (50 miles) southeast of Tripoli, the agency said, citing information from an official who requested anonymity.
“The situation inside the airport is very tense and tanks are surrounding the buildings. No one is allowed into the building,” the official was quoted as saying.
Mohammed al-Harizy, a spokesman for the Libyan ruling National Transitional Council, said the militants have demanded the release of one of their leaders, Col. Abu Oegeila al-Hebeishi, who was kidnapped last night between Tripoli and Tarhouna by unknown people.
All flights have been cancelled at the airport and the incoming aircraft are being redirected to the Mitiga military airport in Tripoli.
