TRIPOLI: At least 28 people were killed and nearly 130 wounded in fierce clashes on Friday between forces loyal to the UN-backed unity government and rival militiamen, the health ministry said.

The city has been gripped by a power struggle between dozens of militias since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Health ministry spokesman Anwar Frajallah was not able to say if civilians were among the casualties, as he gave a provisional toll of 28 dead and 128 wounded.—AFP