Africa
6 years ago

Libya mosque bombing kills three, wounds 48

People inspect the damage inside a mosque following a twin bombing in Benghazi, Libya February 9, 2018. (REUTERS)
People inspect the damage inside a mosque following a twin bombing in Benghazi, Libya February 9, 2018. (REUTERS)

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A twin bombing at a small mosque in Libya’s eastern city of Benghazi has killed three people and wounded at least 48 others, medics said.

The explosions occurred during Friday prayers at the mosque located in Benghazi’s Majouri district, reports Reuters citing Security officials.    

It's believed the explosive devices were hidden in bags and placed at the doors of the mosque, before being remotely detonated using mobile phones.

The BBC reports quoting medics that dozens of victims have been transferred to Benghazi’s Al Jalaa hospital and their injuries ranged from minor to critical wounds.

Two weeks ago, around 35 people were killed by a twin bombing at another mosque in Benghazi.

Libya’s second-largest city is controlled by the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by eastern-based commander Khalifa Haftar. The LNA was battling Islamists, including some linked to Islamic State and al Qaeda, as well as other opponents until late last year in the Mediterranean port city.

Haftar, a possible contender in national elections that could be held by the end of 2018, has built his reputation on delivering stability in Benghazi and beyond, promising to halt the anarchy that ensued after a NATO-backed uprising ended Muammar Gaddafi’s long rule nearly seven years ago.

Haftar launched his military campaign in Benghazi in May 2014 in response to a series of bombings and assassinations blamed on Islamist militants.

In past months there have been occasional, smaller scale bombings apparently targeting LNA allies or supporters.

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