Libyan fighters clash with ex-regime loyalists in former Gadhafi stronghold, 2 killed

The Associated Press
December 25, 2011 at 8:40PM

TRIPOLI, Libya - A resident of a city in western Libya says at least two people were killed after gunmen ransacked a home in search of a regime figure once loyal to Moammar Gadhafi.

Basem al-Tarhoni says angry residents in Tarhouna retaliated by torching the headquarters of some 100 fighters who helped topple the longtime leader from power.

Tarhouna was widely seen as a Gadhafi favorite, and its dominant tribe, also called Tarhouna, held many positions in the Libyan military. The city's residents are viewed with suspicion by former rebels.

Such clashes are a major challenge for Libya's new rulers.

The clashes took place on the same day security ministers announced a program for integrating former rebels in civil institutions. The ministers gave few details and offered no timetable for disarming fighters.

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RAMI AL-SHAHEIBI

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