Opponents of Libyan leader Moamer Gaddafi have taken control of the third largest city in the country, Misurata, Al Jazeera broadcaster reported Sunday.
Government troops and security loyal to Gaddafi have left Misurata, around 200 kilometers east of the capital Tripoli, a resident in the city told Al Jazeera.
Reports said that 23 people were killed when Gaddafi's security forces attacked the city's airport, dpa reported.
According to the London-based daily Asharq al-Awsat newspaper, Gaddafi forces now control only half of Tripoli, one day after observers said the leader's supporters have barricaded the capital to prevent protesters from entering from other cities.
His stronghold Bab al-Aziziya neighbourhood is said to be protected by tanks, armoured vehicles and missile launchers.
In the eastern city of Benghazi, former justice minister Mustafa Abdel Jalil, who defected from Gaddafi's cabinet last week, had formed an interim government in the city.
Protesters have taken over Benghazi following violent clashes that left hundreds dead. The city has reported one of the highest death tolls during the unrest.
Asharq al-Awsat also reported that many people have defected from Libyan secret service and military committees. A security source was quoted by the paper sa saying that half the officers in the intelligence body have quit.
Demonstrators have been calling for the ouster of Gaddafi, who grabbed control of Libya in a coup in 1969 and is the longest-serving Arab leader.
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