Update on security situation today in Tripoli

Posted: 13/07/2014

At 4pm today, numerous roadblocks had been set up on main roads through Tripoli to shield civilian traffic from ongoing fighting. As of 4pm local time, the following roadblocks were identified: along the Airport Road just south of the intersection with Pepsi Cola Road approximately 10km further south along the Tripoli Airport Road along Swanni Road just to the east of the intersection with Gharyan Road in the direction of the Airport and a cluster of roadblocks in the vicinity of the 2nd Ring Rd/Gorji Road roundabout. The last 3 roadblocks near the Gorji/2nd Ring roundabout consisted of sand piles. However, the roadblocks on the roads leading to the airport were manned by technicals with militia fighters.

At 450pm, a rocket exploded in the neighborhood just outside Palm City. The rocket explosion is likely the result of inaccurate fire by militias clashing with each other rather than any attempted attack against the Palm City residency. A militia camp at the Regatta compound (roughly 2km east of Palm City) manned by a Zintani Brigade was more likely the scene of clashes, however there was and still remaines a risk that inaccurate rocket fire could hit the surrounding areas.

Also around 4pm heavy explosions and gunfire were reported approx 3km east of Hotel Bustan near Swanni Rd Initial reports indicated that mortars were being fired some 500m north of the Bustan Hotel, and there was also sporadic gunfire directed towards and coming from a Zintani Brigade camp along Swanni Road. There was a period of relative calm in the fighting in the early afternoon, and then intense fighting appeared to begin again around 3:30pm local time. No further details are known at this time.

RPS advises all travellers in Tripoli to remain in their accommodation or work place until the situation calms. They should seek local advice before travelling.

This update was provided by SNE Security.

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